Spring 2025

Anthropology and Theater:  A Conversation

Listed in: Anthropology and Sociology, as ANTH-305  |  Theater and Dance, as THDA-305

Faculty

Deborah B. Gewertz (Section 01)

Description

Anthropology and Theater each explore human behavior through close observation. A primary meeting point for these two disciplines is ritual. Both disciplines distinguish daily behavior from extra-daily behavior and both are concerned with their relationship. Theater people must observe the world to produce a credible and compelling performance of a reality not their own. Anthropologists must observe the world to produce a credible and compelling description of a reality not their own. This course concerns the differences and the similarities between the methods used in theater and anthropology to get the empirical story correct and convincing to their various audiences.

Limited to 25 students.  Spring semester.  Professor Gewertz and Senior Resident Artist Lobdell.

How to handle overenrollment: Seniors and juniors will have precedence.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: close reading, analytic writing, engaged discussion. Assessment: class attendance; three 8-10 page papers, class participation.

Course Materials

Offerings

Other years: Offered in Spring 2025