Introduction to 17th-Century French Classical Theatre

French classical theatre of the 17th century produced some of the world's most enduring literary masterpieces, yet modern readers often struggle to unpack their complex rules and poetic structures. This course demystifies the works of Molire, Corneille, and Racine, making classical French drama accessible and engaging. You will transition from simply reading the text to deeply analyzing the historical context, theatrical conventions, and stylistic choices that define this golden age of performance. What you'll learn: Understand the foundational rules of French classicism, including the three unities of time, place, and action; Analyze the major works and distinct styles of iconic playwrights Molire, Corneille, and Racine; Explore the social and political dynamics of the 17th-century French court and how they influenced the stage; Distinguish between the conventions of classical tragedy and comedy, from alexandrine verse to character archetypes; Examine modern staging interpretations and how these centuries-old plays remain relevant today. The course begins with essential terminology and the historical foundations of the period before guiding you through structured text analyses of key scenes and characters. You will practice identifying rhetorical devices and thematic conflicts through written exercises. This text-only course is designed for beginners, literature enthusiasts, and students of drama with no prior background in French history or classical theatre required. Start your journey into the dramatic world of 17th-century France today.