Spring 2006

E 322 • Crime Fiction in Scandanavia

Course Description

In the past decade, there has been an explosion in the production of Scandinavian crime novels and films. In this class, we will explore this growing genre through analysis of and discussions about these contemporary novels and films. We will also investigate what has brought about this recent focus on crime fiction in Scandinavia, as it is somewhat unexpected due to the region's reputation of being a peaceful part of the world, with low crime rates and a "cradle to the grave" welfare state that takes care of everyone. An examination of the crime novel genre in a broader historical perspective will also be an integral part of course.

Grading Policy

Essay 1 (3 pp, which must be substantially revised - 6 pp total): 15%
Essay 2 (3 pp): 15%
3 Response papers (1 page each): 15%
Quizzes: 20%
Participation: 10%
Final essay (5-7 pp): 25%

Texts

Peter Hòeg, Smilla's Sense of Snow
Henning Mankell, Faceless Killers
Liza Marklund, Paradise Trust
Sjowall and Wahloo, Roseanna
Karin Fossum, Don't Look Back
Kerstin Ekman, Blackwater
Leif Davidsen, Lime's Photography
Course Reader

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