The theme of Fathers and Daughters comes again and again in Shakespeare’s dramas, as a life-affirming metamorphosis. The tragic relationship between Juliet and Old Capulet, goes through a mighty transformation and sacrifice through death for King Lear with Cordelia, and then in the final plays Marina, Imogen, Perdita and Miranda are able to give their fathers new life without dying.

We shall be exploring this evolving theme through the stories and with reference to parts of the texts of seven plays. This work will be complemented by painting exercises to discover how these changes in the human dynamics can be expressed in the creative use of colour.

This course will give more advanced students of Shakespeare the opportunity to deepen their understanding of what lives through this unfolding series of plays, and it will also provide a broad overview as an inspiring introduction for those who are new to this literature.

It will help if participants are familiar with the stories of Romeo and Juliet, King Lear, Pericles and The Tempest. The other plays that will be referred to are The Merchant of Venice, Cymbeline, and The Winter’s Tale.

No previous literary, dramatic or painting experience is necessary to participate in this course, the only requirements are a love of literature and art and the trust that they reveal and confirm our most human potential.