The emphasis of this class is on developing the ability to read and engage critically with drama in German.  Based on a close reading of five representative dramas (plus excerpts from another two), we will investigate how the formal approach to dramatic writing differs in various literary periods, what the language tells us about the respective cultural and historical contexts, and how questions of life and death, of good and evil, are portrayed.  Using approaches adapted from selected theoretical writings, we will analyse and compare the most significant characteristics of these works, focusing on dialogue, character constellation, action, place, and staging.  Besides extending and reinforcing command of the language, engagement with the dramas will allow students to gain a better understanding of the rich literary heritage of German in both cultural and linguistic contexts.