ENGL 2600H: Topics: Modernism

Abstract

COURSE DESCRIPTION:The goal of this course is to familiarize students with the concept of modernism. Modernism can be defined variously as a cultural period of the Western World, from about 1900-1945; or as a style of artistic expression marked by fragmentation and radical subjectivity; or as a dedicated movement set on upturning established standards of representation. While there is little consensus as to what makes a work of art or writing modernist, some cultural artifacts are indisputably so, and we’ll be looking mostly at works of literature central to the modernist canon. We’ll also consult works from other media, like painting and music, to see how modernism manifested in other forms.¶ GENERAL EDUCATION GOALS: • Practice skills in close reading and interpretation • Express ideas in writing and practice revising your work • Understand the timeline and development of modernism in English literature¶ GOALS OF THE COURSE: • Practice the skills of close reading of literature • Explore literary interpretation • Write two thesis-driven essays using claims and evidence structure • Practice a variety of critical perspectives interpreting literature