10:10-11:00 MW WH 009
Although it is tempting to think of ancient myths in terms of eternal
archetypes and timeless truths, no myth is ever told in the same way
or to the same purpose twice.  This TOPICS course will investigate
the shifting meanings of myth: how multiple versions cohere and
contradict, how different societies adapt myth to express their own
meaning.  By tracing the fates of a number of different mythological
figures through Greek, Roman, and modern (twentieth-century)
literature, we will attempt to answer the following questions: what
is the point of revisionist myth-making?  Where does myth shore up
the status quo, and where does it challenge traditions?  How are
various generic, historical, and ideological issues—heroism, tragedy,
romance, politics, gender-reflected and refracted through myth?
Course requirements will include substantial readings in both
classical and modern poetry; weekly 1-page writing assignments; one
longer (5-7 page) analytical essay; a creative group project; active
participation in weekly discussion sections; and two exams.