The first is to develop your command of the argumentative essay. Throughout the semester, we will consider how to generate interesting arguments and how to conduct them persuasively. The second objective is to develop your ability to interpret literary language. A set of enjoyable and challenging plays and poems will provide rich source material for the essays you will write in this class. Much of our time in class will be devoted to the close analysis of their intriguing complexity.
Attendance is mandatory.
If you arrive after class has begun, I will count it as a half-class absence. You are responsible for keeping track of the number of your absences and for submitting homework on days you are absent. If you have not completed required homework or, for some other reason, cannot participate in class, I will mark you as absent. Note that I may ask you to attend an event or two outside class. Start the work of analysis as you read by underlining and commenting upon words and passages you think are significant and interesting.