The theatrical history of the United States is older than the nation itself. From Robert Hunter's satire Androboros (1714), the earliest printed American play, and Thomas Godfrey's tragedy The Prince of Parthia (1765), the first American play professionally performed on an American stage, to George Aiken's stage adaptation of Uncle Tom's Cabin, one of the most popular works of its period in both America and Europe, pre-twentieth century American drama is a complex and compelling topic. This class will address ideas and issues of nationhood, the frontier, American identity, race and race relations, and popular and high culture. Cross-listed with THEA 425. Category C.

Prerequisite: Any 200-level ENGL course with a D or better.