Tom Stoppard's The Invention of Love

About this course

The course examines The Invention of Love as a comic and elegiac dream-play, considering its portrayal of A.E. Housman, Oscar Wilde and other historical literary figures. Learners will explore the play’s late-Victorian artistic context, themes and language, alongside the challenges of staging it and representing its world in performance. Teaching combines tutor mini-lectures with small- and large-group discussion. Selected scenes will be read aloud, with participation in this activity open to those who wish to take part.

What you'll learn

• Analyse the play’s historical and literary context
• Identify significant historical characters and their influence on the action
• Examine how themes are developed through the play’s language and action
• Discuss how design and acting choices could illuminate the play in performance

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners with an interest in reading, considering and discussing The Invention of Love. No previous knowledge is required. Participation includes group discussion, while reading aloud is available for those who wish to take part.

• No previous knowledge of the play is required
• Includes both small- and large-group discussion
• Reading aloud is optional

Before you go

• Learners should buy or borrow a copy of Tom Stoppard’s The Invention of Love.