This pathway of the MA Literary Studies is ideal if you're keen to study Shakespeare at an advanced level. Centred on Shakespeare and early modern literature and culture, you'll also explore the reception and performance of Shakespeare in later times. You'll deepen your understanding of Elizabethan literature, looking at the historical and cultural contexts behind its production, how it evolved and how it's received by modern day readers. You'll read a wide range of texts, from different media, periods, and cultural, geographical and linguistic backgrounds. Being based in London, you'll be able to make the most of the city's thriving literary and performance scenes. We're only a short train ride away from the Globe theatre, where you'll be able to see Shakespeare plays performed first-hand. Our optional ‘Text in Performance' module gives you the chance to work directly with one of England's most respected theatre directors, Bill Alexander (Honorary Associate of the Royal Shakespeare Company). In this module, you'll explore how a play is read and analysed in the rehearsal room and how its language and imagery shapes character and performance choices.