L202 0244-0245 MILLER, ALYCE
Literary Interpretation
0244 07:30a-08:45a D (25) 3 cr.
0245 08:55a-10:10a D (25) 3 cr.
COLLEGE INTENSIVE WRITING SECTIONS
In this course we will consider works within a variety of literary genres (poetry, fiction, nonfiction), and work on developing interpretive methods and skills that will allow you to move beyond “gut responses” to works (“I hated this book,” “I loved this writer”). We will engage in “close readings,” with a special focus on the relationship between form and meaning, and the effects of a writer’s choices and discriminations (language, style, voice, etc.). Who speaks in a work? Who sees? Who knows what and when? Do we trust the teller? What is the distance between the teller and the reader? We will learn some useful literary terms to help in our discussions.
We will also examine the terms “reader” and “author” and “literature” in the context of literary history and conventions, culture, and changing times. And we will work up arguments regarding the way a writer “sees” and how that “seeing” connects to particular world views. The class sessions will consist almost exclusively of discussion, so preparation and careful reading by all in advance will be of utmost importance.
Assignments will consist of some or all of the following: frequent writing exercises, both in and out of class (may include some creative assignments as well as critical responses), quizzes, 2 to 3 creative papers, and two exams (one at midterm and one at the end of the term). Daily attendance and active participation are absolutely essential, and lack of either will adversely affect your grade (course policies will be in the syllabus).
L202 is an intensive writing course. Please note that when you take this in the compressed summer format, you will be spending a lot of time outside of class reading and writing in order to prepare for class discussions and writing assignments. Please take this into consideration as you arrange your summer schedule. The class moves along at a very fast, intensive clip.