Summer 2008

E s379M • Jane Austen

Course Description

Jane Austen is one of the few canonical authors in English literature (perhaps the other would be Shakespeare) to have achieved in equal measure both longstanding critical acclaim and popular devotion. Since Edmund Wilson coined the term in the 1940s, Jane Austen fans have been known, either seriously or derisively as "Janeites." How does consideration of the "Janeite" phenomenon affect our reading of her novels today? In this class we will read four of Jane Austen's six important novels, considering both their impact on literary history and their continuing currency in today's popular culture. We will also consider film and other popular culture adaptations of the novels.

Grading Policy

Five 250-word Blackboard posts per week, for a total of 25% of the final grade
A two-page term paper abstract, worth 10% of the final grade
A two-page annotated bibliography, worth 10% of the final grade
A 5-7-page term paper, worth 30% of the final grade (includes revision)
A final group presentation, worth 25% of the final grade

Texts

Pride and Prejudice
Emma
Mansfield Park
Persuasion

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