Core Module Information
Module title: Classical Text Performance

SCQF level: 09:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10

Module code: CLP09135
Module leader: Donna Soto-Morettini
School School of Arts and Creative Industries
Subject area group: Screen and Performance
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added

Description of module content:

Beginning with the challenges of Greek messenger speeches, this module will work chronologically through a variety of heightened/ classical texts. You will learn about the cultural contexts of each of the texts and will discover how to develop your performances so that they express your understanding of the specific contextual conditions that determine meaning in text. Within this textual exploration you will explore issues regarding acting and its relationship with emotion, psychology, character and how this then advances your interpretation and performance. Each assignment will require a practical demonstration of your increasing ability to find secure, imaginative and emotional connections with the written word, and an ability to bring language to life in an engaging, complex and believable way – however historically placed. It is expected that your exploration into various texts will serve as a first foray into assessing and retaining possible audition portfolio material, and to that end, you will be expected to demonstrate a firm understanding of the kinds of texts that suit your particular playing strengths and range. This module therefore forms an important basis for your work in level 10 (Performance Skills for Professional Practice). You will compile and present research that demonstrates your ability to identify and assess appropriate critical and historical resources to underpin and to contextualise your practical work. The module will culminate in a final assessed showing.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Apply the results of a critical analysis and integrate a range of physical, vocal and acting skills to develop an imaginative performance that demonstrates ability to interpret heightened/demanding text.

LO2: Articulate and justify a critical theoretical approach to preparing, executing, and sustaining performance choices when working with complex language.

LO3: Work autonomously and collaboratively to analyse, develop, and respond creatively to a complex classical text, taking responsibility for your contribution to the process.

LO4: Analyse and evaluate the specific demands of complex language and stylistic conventions, and demonstrate an informed and appropriate performance response.

LO5: Demonstrate an informed and critically reflective understanding of the interplay between theory and practice in the actor’s process, underpinned by relevant research and observation.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2026/7, Trimester 1, FACE-TO-FACE, Edinburgh Napier University
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: FACE-TO-FACE
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner: Edinburgh Napier University
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Donna Soto-Morettini
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 48 Contact Module Leader
Independent Learning Guided independent study 102 Contact Module Leader
Independent Learning Groupwork (Independent Study) 50 Contact Module Leader
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Discussion/Participation 50 1,2,3,4 14/15 HOURS= 01.00, WORDS= 0 Contact Module Leader
Learning Log 15 5 12 HOURS= 00.00, WORDS= 1000 Contact Module Leader
Practical Skills Assessment 35 1,2,3,4,5 13 HOURS= 00.20, WORDS= 0 Contact Module Leader
Component 1 subtotal: 50
Component 2 subtotal: 50
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Classical Text Performance