Fall 2005

E 316K • Masterworks of Literature: British (32890-32935)

Course Description

In this course, we will trace the emergence of a tradition of women's writing in English from the Middle Ages to the present. We will follow the path of literature in English as it follows the routes of trade and colonialism to become 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. 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 the role of gender in the cultures of the English-speaking world.

Grading Policy

Regular and timely attendance at all lectures and sections 10%
Ten 1-page take-home tests 5% each
Midterm conference 10%
Final conference 10%
A final group project and presentation 20%

Texts

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

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