This course will explore the characteristics of dramatic form and analyze the ways in which the purpose and the presentation of the genre has evolved over time. Our texts will include works by Sophocles, Tennessee Williams, Arthur Miller, August Wilson, Dominique Morisseau and Annie Baker. The goal of the course is to examine the effect of social and historical contexts on the creation and reception of the genre by studying various texts and schools, including realism and verse drama. We will also discuss plays that address issues of power and identity by examining works written by diverse playwrights. By examining form and content, students will be able to discuss dramatic structure, use of dialogue, setting and character. Students will write 10-minute plays and short analytical papers.