MWF 9:05-9:55
Satisfies A&H and Cultural Studies requirements

An exploration of different perspectives on the “self”, using both
philosophical as well as literary texts – from the “Eastern”
tradition and the “Western” tradition – the course focus on three
themes: (1) the relationship of the individual to society; (2) the
outcast as a hero; (3) the self as artist. Lao-tsz (Laozi), Plato,
Confucius, and Chuang-tsu (Zhuangzi), are among the philosophers who
will be compared. The reading for this course is rich and extensive:
Montaigne’s Selected Essays, Thoreau’s Walden, Joyce’s Portrait of
the Artist as a Young Man, Camus’ The Stranger, MacCullers’ The
Ballad of Sad Café, Coetzee’s Waiting for Barbarians and two of
Freud’s essays. Required written work: two papers (minimum 6 pages);
class reports; and some short (1-2 pages) writing exercises. No
examinations.