Ways into Advanced Literature: disruptors, transgressors and storytellers

About this course

The course examines Nathanael West’s The Day of the Locust, Joan Didion’s Play It as It Lays and Eve Babitz’s Slow Days, Fast Company in relation to American culture and Hollywood across the 1930s, 1960s and 1970s. Participants develop close-reading and analytical skills by exploring literary techniques, narrative structure and character development. Teaching combines short introductory lectures with small-group and whole-group discussion. Each session is supported by contextual information and questions to guide consideration of the set texts.

What you'll learn

• Identify the social, historical and cultural frameworks surrounding each text.
• Apply close-reading skills to examine literary techniques.
• Analyse narrative structure and character development.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners who have previously undertaken some literary or relevant humanities study and want to extend their analytical skills. Sessions combine introductory lectures with small- and whole-group discussion, with a willingness to contribute and consider other viewpoints forming part of the participation style.

• Some previous literary or relevant humanities study is required.
• Learners should be willing to join discussions and consider other perspectives.

Before you go

• Participants should buy or borrow copies of Nathanael West’s The Day of the Locust, Joan Didion’s Play It as It Lays and Eve Babitz’s Slow Days, Fast Company: The World, The Flesh and L.A.
• Readings are set for each week as preparation for the relevant class, with contextual information and questions provided to guide reading.
• Secondary materials are provided by the tutor.