Samuel Beckett: Archive, Text and Performance

The Samuel Beckett: Archive, Text and Performance programme at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive exploration of the life, works, and theatrical legacy of one of the most influential playwrights and authors of the 20th century. This innovative degree blends the study of Samuel Beckett’s archived materials, his literary texts, and their performance contexts, providing students with a multidisciplinary understanding of his contributions to literature and theatre. The course is designed for students interested in theatre studies, literary analysis, archival research, and performance practice, aiming to deepen their knowledge of Beckett’s experimental style, themes, and philosophical inquiries. Throughout the programme, students engage with original manuscripts,Letters, diaries, and production archives, gaining valuable insights into Beckett’s creative process and the historical backdrop of his work. The curriculum combines rigorous academic study of Beckett’s published texts with hands-on experience in performance and staging, allowing learners to interpret and present his works in innovative ways. Lectures, seminars, and workshops foster critical thinking and collaborative skills, while opportunities to visit archives and attend performances provide immersive learning experiences. The programme also emphasizes interdisciplinary methods, integrating literary criticism, theatre history, and performance studies, to equip students for careers in academia, theatre production, literary analysis, or archival research. Graduates of this programme will possess a thorough understanding of Samuel Beckett’s influence on modernist literature and contemporary performance, as well as practical skills in research, textual analysis, and theatrical staging. Whether your interest lies in scholarly research or theatrical practice, this course provides a unique platform to explore the complex world of Samuel Beckett through the lens of archival collections, literary texts, and live performance.

Modules include:

• Multimedia Beckett
• Beckett and the Archive
• Beckett Practical Workshops in Film, Theatre and Television
• Beckett and Modernism
• Beckett and Contemporary Performance

Requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 overall with no element less than 5.5 (or equivalent).
• You are normally required to have a good undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent from a university outside the UK). If you have other qualifications and a number of years' relevant work experience then you may also be eligible to apply.

The Samuel Beckett: Archive, Text and Performance program at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive approach to funding and financing for prospective students. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's nationality and residency status, with UK and EU students benefiting from different fee structures compared to international students. The university provides detailed information about tuition costs on its official website, allowing applicants to plan their finances accordingly. In addition to tuition fees, students should consider living expenses, which include accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. The university's location in Reading offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger cities such as London or Oxford, making it a practical choice for students.

The program offers multiple funding options to support students financially. Scholarships and bursaries are available for both domestic and international students, based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific criteria related to the program. These are typically merit-based or need-based awards that can significantly reduce the overall cost of study. Applicants are encouraged to explore the university's scholarship pages and apply early, as competition for these funds can be intense.

In addition to internal funding opportunities, students may seek external sources of finance, such as government loans, grants, or sponsorships from cultural and arts organizations. The UK government offers loans to eligible students, which can cover tuition fees and living costs, repayable after graduation. International students are advised to explore scholarships offered by their own governments or scholarship providers dedicated to supporting studies in the UK.

The University of Reading also offers financial guidance through its student finance office, which provides information on budgeting, applying for loans, and managing funds during the course. Part-time work opportunities are available on or near campus, allowing students to supplement their income while balancing academic commitments. The university's career services also provide advice on securing part-time employment and internships related to arts, literature, and performance.

For students requiring additional financial support, the university offers hardship funds and emergency grants, ensuring that financial difficulties do not impede their ability to complete their studies. It is recommended that all prospective and current students consult the university's official resources and contact the financial aid office for personalized advice tailored to their specific circumstances. Planning ahead and understanding the full scope of available funding options are essential steps in successfully financing studies in this program at the University of Reading.

The Samuel Beckett: Archive, Text and Performance program at the University of Reading offers an in-depth exploration of the life, works, and influence of Samuel Beckett, one of the most significant writers of the 20th century. This program is designed for students interested in literature, theatre, performance studies, and archival research, providing a comprehensive understanding of Beckett’s contributions to modernist literature and dramatic arts. The curriculum encompasses a wide range of modules covering Beckett’s literary oeuvre, including his novels, plays, poetry, and unpublished manuscripts, as well as his extensive archival materials. Students will engage in critical analysis of Beckett’s texts, examining themes such as existentialism, absurdism, and the nature of language and communication.

The program emphasizes both historical context and contemporary performance practice, enabling students to interpret Beckett's work through various theatrical and multimedia lenses. Practical workshops and performance modules allow participants to explore stagecraft and experimental theatre techniques, reflecting Beckett’s innovative approaches to performance. Additionally, the program offers training in archival research methods, enabling students to handle original manuscripts, letters, and production notes housed in the Samuel Beckett Archive. This experiential learning fosters skills in critical thinking, research, and creative interpretation.

Students will also study the influence of Beckett’s work on subsequent generations of writers and performers, considering adaptations and reinterpretations across different cultural contexts. Collaboration with theatre companies and participation in performances or festivals further enhance the practical dimension of the program. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with a detailed understanding of Beckett's literary and theatrical legacy, as well as hands-on experience in archival management and performance analysis. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in academia, archival work, performance arts, publishing, or theatre production, offering a unique interdisciplinary platform that combines literature, history, and performative practice in the study of Samuel Beckett’s enduring impact.