Prerequisites: None

Exam Type: No Exam

This reading group will explore themes related to law and justice in Shakespeare’s plays. Some of the themes we may discuss include the tensions between justice and mercy and between legal and moral responsibility, processes for assessing evidence (and their flaws), and constitutional questions regarding the foundations of legitimate sovereign authority. Each of our six sessions will focus on a different play: The Merchant of Venice, Measure for Measure, Henry VI Part 2, Richard II, Othello, and Much Ado About Nothing. No prior expertise or experience is required.

Note: This reading group will meet on the following dates: January 25 (introductory session), February 8, February 22, March 7, March 21, April 4, and April 18.