English 110B - Spring, 2018

Introduction to Modern Literary and Critical Theory

Class Information

Instructor: Menely, Tobias
Time: TR 9:00-10:20
Location: 106 Olson

Description

Etymologically, to theorize means to look contemplatively, to examine from a distance, to speculate. To be a theorist, for the Greeks, is to stand apart and consider, whether one is viewing the stage, the stars, or the underlying forms of things. Critique, by contrast, assumes an active relation to historical crisis and conflict. Critical theory, then, is defined by a tension between two imperatives: contemplation and judgment.

Grading

Two Five-Page Essays: 50%
Online Discussion Forum: 30%
Final Exam 20%

Texts

Online Course Packet