The short story course is intended for students who would like to begin a study of literature and are interested in studying the aspects of fiction at an introductory level. The major objective of the course is to help students identify, understand, interpret, and enjoy fiction. Women's Literature explores fiction and poetry by well-known writers, such as Charlotte Bronte and Emily Dickinson as well as by less famous contemporary women with varied backgrounds and viewpoints. Students in the class will learn to express and support original ideas about the literature they read. Both women and men are welcome to take the class.
Myths are among the oldest, most powerful, and most entertaining forms of literature.
Participants in this course study a wide range of myths within and beyond the western tradition. The subject matter includes both the Greek and Roman myths that form a necessary background to much western literature and art and variations of those stories told in cultures uninfluenced by western civilization. Comparisons of myths from around the world demonstrate that very different but equally valid patterns of thought have been applied to answering similar questions about the human condition in a wide variety of times and places. Readings include myths from Celtic, Germanic, African, Asian, and Native American traditions. A different topic, author, or group of authors is presented in each Topics in Literature course.