Summer 2007

E f316K • Masterworks of Literature: British

Course Description

In this course, we will examine the emergence of a tradition of women's writing in English from the Middle Ages to the present. We will follow the English language along the routes of trade and colonialism and observe how English becomes a global literature by the end of the twentieth century. Along the way, we will ask how the literary record documents women's changing status and ongoing challenges and achievements. We will also examine the art and music of the periods and regions we study in order to enrich our insight into the work of women writers. Finally, we will consider some special topics raised by the works as they impact our understanding of women and gender today. Students can expect to finish this course with a broad knowledge of literary history, familiarity with the major genres of literature in English, skills in feminist literary and cultural analysis, and an introduction to writing by women in the cultures of the English-speaking world.

Grading Policy

Ten take-home tests 5% each
Ten 250-word Blackboard posts 4% each
Attendance and participation 10%

Texts

Gilbert and Gubar, The Norton Anthology of Literature by Women: The Traditions in English (Second Edition)

back