4:00-5:15P   TR   BH 319

H212 is a selective examination of important documents in Western history
from the 17th century to the present.  Although in the limited time of a
single semester we cannot expect to be comprehensive, we will examine
important work from a variety of different periods and cultures.  In
addition to becoming familiar with such widely different writers as Molire
and Rousseau, Goethe and Wordsworth, Darwin and Freud, Whitman and
Baldwin, we will also learn something of the ages and cultures which
produced them.  Terms such as Neo-classicism and Romanticism,  Realism and
Naturalism, Modernism and Post-modernism will be explained as we proceed,
and used as background to the texts.
	Our approach will follow common sense.  The first thing we wish to
do when we read a piece of literature is to understand what the writer is
saying.  Once we have done that, we can begin to address other matters,
such as how the various ideas and attitudes are conveyed, or fit within
the historical context.  How do we know that Tartuffe's piety isn't
genuine?  Why does Swift recommend that children of the poor be roasted
and eaten?  To what extent are the ideas of Dickens and Darwin influenced
by the conventions of prose narrative?  What do Dostoevsky's obsessions
have in common with Freudian psychology?  These questions, and others like
them, will assist us in determining the purposes of the various writers,
and the means by which they accomplish them.  Though we expect to cover a
wide range of material, we can stop at any point and examine a given work
in greater detail.
	The reading load will be moderate.  Class discussion, intended to
be vigorous and freewheeling, depends on having read and thought about the
material beforehand.  We will all learn more, and have more fun, if
everyone takes part.  Lecturing will occur from time to time, as
necessary, but never so often as to give students the idea that they can
come to class passive and unprepared.
	Students can expect to write 5 or 6 papers of 3-4 pages, each.
Short quizzes may be given from time to time to make sure that everyone
keeps up with the reading.  Grades will be determined primarily by the
quality of the papers handed in, though class discussion will be taken
into account, especially in borderline situations.
	Attendance is mandatory.  Repeated absences will result in a lower
grade for the course, and in extreme cases, failure.