Prof. Vivian Nun Halloran
MW 2:30-3:45
*Satisfies COAS A&H requirements*

This course provides an introduction to major critical theories and
methods that have been central to literary analysis since the
1960s.  We will examine key issues and debates regarding the acts of
writing, reading and interpretation.  Our survey will include
structuralist, deconstructive, psychoanalytic, postmodern,
postcolonial and reader response approaches.  We will consider
problems connected with the application of theories across
cultures.  As a class, we will consider these theories as they might
apply to one narrative work (Manuel Puig’s Kiss of the Spider Woman)
and one dramatic work (Shakespeare’s Othello).

There will be two exams during the semester and a final 7-8-page
paper in which you will apply one of the theories to a short work of
your choice.   There will also be informal short written assignments
on the assigned readings.