ENGH 309: Topics in Literature

ENGH 309-002: Epic
(Spring 2018)

10:30 AM to 11:45 AM TR

Section Information for Spring 2018

ENGH 309 - 002: Epic

When we think about the genre of 'epic,' we usually think about the ancient heroes, bloody wars, and elaborate poetry of the distant past.  But is that really all that the epic is about?  Why was this form so popular in the premodern world? And why does it remain popular in our contemporary culture?

In this course, we will explore how epic narratives shape our definitions of heroism, gender, and fame; we will study the close connections between the epic genre and the rise and fall of empires; we will analyze how works of art can simultaneously condone and question acts of violence.  Through a variety of primary and secondary readings, ranging from ancient Greece to the modern Caribbean, we will think about the role that the epic genre has played in society in the past - and, by extension, the role that epic narratives continue to play in our society of today.  In this way, we will use our examination of the epic genre to investigate the relationship between the textuality of literature and our own lived reality.  Assignments will include short papers, a take-home midterm exam, a final paper, and a presentation on a contemporary epic of your choice.

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Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 1-3

Studies literature by topics, such as women in literature, science fiction, and literature of the avant garde. Notes: Topic varies. May be repeated for credit when topic is different. May be repeated within the term.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: Satisfaction of University requirements in 100-level English and in Mason Core literature.
Schedule Type: Lec/Sem #1, Lec/Sem #2, Lec/Sem #3, Lec/Sem #4, Lec/Sem #5, Lec/Sem #6, Lec/Sem #7, Lec/Sem #8, Lec/Sem #9, Lecture, Sem/Lec #10, Sem/Lec #11, Sem/Lec #12, Sem/Lec #13, Sem/Lec #14, Sem/Lec #15, Sem/Lec #16, Sem/Lec #17, Sem/Lec #18
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

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