Looking for info about the reputation of the Shakespeare Institute
July 7, 2010 9:06 PM Subscribe
I am looking for information about the Shakespeare Institute in Stratford-Upon-Avon (part of the University of Birmingham, UK). Specifically, I am wondering about its reputation for teaching and research. I am an American student considering attending for an MA in Shakespeare Studies, but don't feel like I have enough information to make a decision.
Best answer: An acquaintance of mine studied there about 10 years ago. I can try and put you in touch if you'd like to have a chat.
Having lived in the area when I was younger, I can tell you that the location is absolutely lovely and, if you're looking to immerse yourself in the whole Shakespeare Experience (TM) then living and studying in Stratford (and just round the corner from the RSC) would be wonderful, I imagine.
posted by dogsbody at 1:34 AM on July 8, 2010
Having lived in the area when I was younger, I can tell you that the location is absolutely lovely and, if you're looking to immerse yourself in the whole Shakespeare Experience (TM) then living and studying in Stratford (and just round the corner from the RSC) would be wonderful, I imagine.
posted by dogsbody at 1:34 AM on July 8, 2010
Best answer: I work in this field. The Institute is very good and well-respected. You might like to compare the MA in Shakespeare Studies at King's College London or the MA in Renaissance and Early Modern Studies at Queen Mary, University of London. (Full disclosure: a friend teaches at King's and I'm attached to a research centre at QMUL.)
posted by bebrogued at 6:04 AM on July 8, 2010
posted by bebrogued at 6:04 AM on July 8, 2010
I don't know much about the Institute but I do know Stratford, I grew up there, and wouldn't necessarily recommend it as a place to study, even if you are studying Shakespeare. Strip away the Shakespeare and it's a small market town with not a lot happening. Add the Shakespeare and it's a small market town that's a Shakespeare theme park, with amazing theatres and a lot of tourists. I'd recommend living in Leamington and commuting to Stratford, but then again, small market towns might be just up your street. It's not your question, so I won't go on, but if you want to know more, just say.
posted by Helga-woo at 5:39 AM on July 9, 2010
posted by Helga-woo at 5:39 AM on July 9, 2010
This thread is closed to new comments.
What I would do in your situation is compare this University against others offering the same (or similar) degree.
posted by Mutant at 12:02 AM on July 8, 2010