Introduction to Classical Drama

This is a foundational course designed to introduce learners to the concept, meaning, and nature of drama as both a literary genre and a performing art. The course provides an overview of the fundamental principles of drama, including its definitions, forms, distinctive characteristics, and essential elements. Students will explore how drama differs from other literary genres and develop an understanding of the relationship between dramatic texts and theatrical performance. By examining the structure and components of drama, learners will build the foundational knowledge and critical perspective necessary for appreciating and studying classical dramatic works and pursuing more advanced studies in drama and theatre.

No Certificate / Course on Audit Track

About Course

Introduction to Classical Drama is a foundational course that introduces learners to the concept, meaning, and definitions of drama along with its various forms. The course explores drama as both a literary genre and a performing art, highlighting its unique characteristics and significance in literature. Learners will examine the differences between drama and other literary genres while gaining an understanding of how dramatic texts are read, interpreted, and performed. Additionally, the course covers the essential elements of drama, providing a strong basis for the study and appreciation of classical dramatic works.

Authorship and Attribution

This course has been curated by Riphah International University faculty and staff using publicly available third-party content and Open Educational Resources (OER) for self-paced learning. Learners will engage with curated open-access materials to achieve the course learning outcomes. All third-party content is used under open-access or fair-use policies, while any original materials are developed specifically for this learning experience.

Source and Credits:

  • Instructor: Khan Academy
  • Provider: YouTube (@khanacademy)
  • License: Standard YouTube license

Source and Credits:

  • Instructor: Mometrix Academy
  • Provider: YouTube (@MometrixAcademy)
  • License: Standard YouTube license

What You'll Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Define drama, its forms, and explain its purpose as a literary form. 
  • Differentiate between drama as a written text and a staged performance. 
  • Identify the basic elements of drama and distinguish it from poetry and prose fiction.

Prerequisites

Students with a foundational understanding of English literature, literary genres, and basic literary analysis. No prior specialized knowledge of classical drama is required.

Who Can Take This Course?

This course introduces the origins and development of classical drama, focusing on Greek and Roman theatrical traditions. Students will explore major dramatic forms, key playwrights, fundamental dramatic concepts, and the lasting influence of classical drama on literature and theatre.

Course Outline

Meaning and Definition of Drama With its Various Forms

Define Drama: An Overview (Video)

Dramas (Video)

Drama as Performance and Literature

Reading and Performing Drama (Video)

Difference Between Drama and Other Literary Genres

Drama as a Literary Genre (Video)

Elements of Drama

Understanding Dramatic Elements (Video)

Skills You Will Gain

Drama Fundamentals Literary Analysis Skills Dramatic Elements Understanding Performance Interpretation Genre Differentiation Critical Reading Skills Classical Drama Appreciation Theatrical Concepts Knowledge

Course Information

Duration

Less Than 1 Hour

Course Information

Difficulty Level

Beginner

Learning Mode

Fully Online (Asynchronous)

Learning Type

Self Paced

Language

Instructor/Curator

Course Instructor
  • Zill-E-Huma Navid profile image
    Zill-E-Huma Navid Lecturer, English, Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities (FSSH), Riphah International University