Ghost Stories
Course Description
Summary
In this course, we will read and write ghost stories. We will pay particular attention to the uses of ghosts in plays, with some diversions into film, fiction, and our own personal ghost experiences. You do not need to believe in the paranormal to take this class: we will consider traditional ghosts (the spooky kind) while also thinking more broadly about memory, absence, and loss. We will discuss when a playwright might choose to make use of a ghost, how the techniques of the stage can be used to scare and unsettle audiences, and why doing so might serve an end beyond cheap frights. Funny ghosts will also make an appearance. Readings will likely include plays by Christopher Chen, Suzan-Lori Parks, Aya Ogawa, Lucas Hnath, Lisa Kron, Shakespeare, James Ijames, and others.
First-time playwrights are welcome in this class, as well as those with more experience. We will use ghosts as an entry point to learn more about our own distinctive playwriting style and concerns. Every student will be expected to write a one-act play that includes a ghost. What that means – what exactly is a ghost? – will be a central question of this class.