Literature
Ways into Advanced Literature: 20th century readings
An improver-level literature course using close reading, critical discussion and lectures to examine twentieth-century novels and poetry.
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Upcoming classes
1 class
About this course
The course examines modernity through Virginia Woolf’s Jacob’s Room, Nella Larsen’s Passing, Jean Rhys’s Good Morning, Midnight, and selected poetry by T.S. Eliot and Edna St. Vincent Millay. Topics include modernist narrative, character and viewpoint, cultural identity, social and class boundaries, and the language of modern poetry. Teaching combines short lectures with small-group and whole-class discussion, supported by close reading and critical texts. Participants may also give an optional 10-minute seminar presentation on a course topic.
What you'll learn
- Analyse literary texts through close reading
- Examine narrative structure and character development in fiction
- Interpret the language and form of modern poetry
- Relate novels and poems to their cultural and historical contexts
- Prepare and deliver a short seminar presentation
Is this course right for you?
The course is intended for learners who have undertaken some literary study and want to develop their analytical skills further. Participation includes considering different interpretations in small-group and whole-class discussion, with weekly reading and preparation. A 10-minute seminar presentation is available but not compulsory.
- Some previous literary study is expected
- Weekly reading and preparatory questions form part of the course
- Discussion is an important part of the teaching
- The seminar presentation is optional
Before you go
- Participants need to buy or borrow Jacob’s Room by Virginia Woolf, Passing by Nella Larsen and Good Morning, Midnight by Jean Rhys.
- Poetry and other course materials are provided by the lecturer.
- Weekly readings and questions are set for preparation before class.