An Introduction to Literary Studies could take a number of different shapes. This version will be a somewhat old-fashioned one. The scope will be limited, historically and geographically; the work we examine will be European, in English (some translation), and mostly from the last 200 years. This is a very small sample of the world’s Literature, but it will provide us with enough material to practice a kind of close reading (fundamental to Literary Study), and to get some sense of the range of interpretive/critical discourses that are characteristic for Literary Studies.
Students will analyze and interpret the meaning, cultural significance and ethical implications of literary texts (poetry and prose) in English and other languages (in translation), and will develop a sense of the history and range of various modes of interpretation.
Northanger Abbey (Norton Critical Editions) by Jane Austen (Author), Susan Fraiman (Editor). ISBN-13: 978-0393978506. ISBN-10: 9780393978506
(and files posted on Canvas)
I will give a series of 12 brief written assignments for you to turn in before various classes. These assignments will account for 60% of your grade, (5%/each). You will also have a midterm Exam (20%), and a final Term Paper worth 20%.
I will accept late work, but will take points off for lateness.
Not attending a scheduled class session in-person results in an absence. There may be times when you cannot or should not attend class, such as if you are not feeling well, have an interview, or have family responsibilities. Therefore, this courseallows a specified number of absences without penalty, regardless of reason. After that, penalties accrue. Exceptions are allowed for Institute-approved absences (for example, those documented by the Registrar) and situations such as hospitalization or family emergencies (documented by the Office of the Dean of Students).Students may miss a total of five (5) classes over the course of the semester without penalty. Each additional absence after the allotted number deducts 2% from a student’s final grade.
Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.
This is a Core IMPACTS course that is part of the Humanities area.
Core IMPACTS refers to the core curriculum, which provides students with essential knowledge in foundational academic areas. This course will help master course content, and support students’ broad academic and career goals.
This course should direct students toward a broad Orienting Question:
- How do I interpret the human experience through creative, linguistic and philosophical works?
Completion of this course should enable students to meet the following Learning Outcome:
- Students will effectively analyze and interpret the meaning, cultural significance and ethical implications of literary/philosophical texts in English or other languages, or of works in the visual/performing arts.
Course content, activities and exercises in this course should help students develop the following Career-Ready Competencies:
- Ethical Reasoning
- Information Literacy
- Intercultural Competence