Humanities & The Hero: Aeschylus, the Father of Tragedy
Dates: April 23 , April 30, May 7, May 14, May 21, May 28

Dionysus, the god of drama, visited a young vineyard worker in his sleep, legend has it, and ordered the young man to commit himself to the emerging art of tragedy. The youth, named Aeschylus, would become the foremost dramatist of democratic Athens. His timeless plays examine subjects that vex us still today: how does the law gain its legitimacy? How do we face down a tyrant? How do democracies avoid self-destructive internal strife? What power do (or should) ancient pieties hold over us in modern times?

Dr. Seemee Ali will lead this 6-week course, inspired by the Undermain Theater’s May 2024 production of Aeschylus’ first play – the first written drama in the West. Together, we will explore all of the playwright’s surviving plays: The Persians, Seven Against Thebes, The Suppliants, The Oresteia trilogy, and Prometheus Bound. Participating teachers are eligible to receive 12 hours of continuing education credit.

**Please note parking is not included in the course fee. Free street parking is available on a first come fist served basis, or there is paid parking located at 2711 Routh Street.