This course concentrates on form and technique in lyric poetry, presuming some earlier classroom experience in reading verse. Nevertheless, we review matters of measure and figure, drawing illustrations from all periods of British and American poetry. Students may be expected to read aloud and discuss specific poems regularly in class, as well as to write frequent papers analyzing poems chosen from the text. Despite what may sometimes seem repetitious readings, students should expect a demanding level of work both in and outside of class. Conferences may be required on paperwork and are available also by arrangement.
Evaluation is based on classroom participation and written work.