Tales from Everywhere

About this course

The course examines four works from Asia, Africa and post-war Europe: Kay Cicellis’s modern retelling of Greek tragedy, Sembene Ousmane’s account of colonial Senegal, and stories by Siburapha and Brigitte Reimann. Discussion will consider colonial encounters, historical change, everyday experience, family conflict and complex relationships. Teaching combines tutor input with class discussion, beginning with an introduction to the texts. Participants will prepare readings outside class and examine how literary works engage with myth and their historical and political contexts.

What you'll learn

• Discuss fiction from Asia, Africa and post-war Europe across a range of genres.
• Recognise how ancient myth can remain relevant in contemporary storytelling.
• Explain ways that historical and political contexts can shape literary production.

Is this course right for you?

Listed as suitable for all levels, the course is intended for learners interested in 20th-century fiction and willing to read, prepare and discuss texts in a group. Participation includes listening to and responding to other learners’ interpretations while developing analytical skills.

• Requires reading and preparation outside class.
• Involves sharing and considering responses to literary works in a group.

Before you go

• Participants need to borrow or buy the four course texts: The Way to Colonos, God’s Bits of Wood, Woman in the Pillory and Behind the Portrait.
• A full reading list will be provided before the course begins.