Introduction to Literary Theory
Class Information
Instructor: Shershow, Scott
Time: TR 12:10-1:30
Location: 207 Olson
Description
This course will survey highlights of the European tradition of literary and critical theory. We’ll begin with Plato and Aristotle in classical Greece and move all the way to Kant and Marx in the nineteenth century, considering in particular the intersection of specifically literary and aesthetic concerns with the broader claims of cultural or social theory. Students who are planning to take, or have already taken, ENL 110b, the survey of contemporary critical theory, are welcome to take this course as well. This course is also recommended for students planning to pursue graduate study in language and literature.
Grading
Evaluation will be based on short weekly response papers, a concluding term paper, a midterm and final exam, and participation in the discussion section.
Texts
The Norton Anthology of Criticism and Theory, Third Edition, Vincent Leitch