The course aims to present the major theoretical trends and key debates surrounding the art of theatre through the analysis and interpretation of representative texts and landmark moments in the history of theatre theory. Together with the students, we will read and analyze seminal texts or selected excerpts from them that theorize fundamental concepts of theatre within their specific historical contexts. Particular emphasis will be placed on identifying those aspects that remain relevant today and exploring ways in which these theories may be expanded beyond the historical conditions in which they emerged. Furthermore, the course is expected to foster skills closely associated with the nature of theatre itself, including creativity, imagination, sociability, communication, and interaction.

After the successful completion of the course, students are expected to:

•    demonstrate knowledge of the principal issues and debates that have been articulated throughout history concerning the nature, form, purpose, and means of theatre; 
•    critically engage with and analyze theoretical texts on theatre; 
•    relate theories of theatre to the fundamental aesthetic and cultural questions of their respective historical periods; 
•    interpret theoretical and philosophical reflections on theatre in relation to contemporary performance practice.