Literature
Romantic Visions
A beginner-level literature course examining Romanticism through poetry, prose, Gothic writing, art and class discussion.
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Upcoming classes
1 class
About this course
The course examines how Romanticism developed from the late eighteenth-century revival of medieval ballads to the work of poets including Wordsworth, Coleridge, Keats and Shelley. Poetry is the main focus, alongside the movement’s opposition to Classicism, interest in supernatural and drug-induced experiences, and darker Gothic forms. Sessions also consider writers such as Thomas de Quincey, Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley and Walter Scott, with selected art and architecture from the period. Teaching combines tutor exposition, class discussion, and analysis of videos and clips, with texts read before class.
What you'll learn
- Identify recurring themes in Romantic literature
- Relate Romantic literature to wider Western cultural developments
- Discuss poetry, prose and Gothic writing from the period
Is this course right for you?
The course is intended for learners at beginner level and does not require previous knowledge or experience of literary study. It suits those prepared to read the set texts before class and take part in discussion, including sharing ideas and listening to other viewpoints.
- No previous literary study is required
- Participation includes class discussion and exchange of viewpoints
Before you go
- Learners should read the texts before class.
- Learners should bring a pen, notepaper and a file for handouts and other course materials.
- Learners should obtain The Norton Anthology of English Literature: The Romantic Period, 2012 edition. The ninth edition is also accepted.