Where to find a free course about Literature ?

Free online courseLiterature

Duration of the online course: 4 hours and 49 minutes

(1)

Unlock the world of great literature with a free online course from The School of Life. Explore works by Voltaire, Austen, Dickens, Woolf, and more. Perfect for basic studies.

Course Description

The course titled "Literature" offers a rich and engaging journey through the world of classical and modern literary masterpieces. With a total duration of 4 hours and 49 minutes, this course belongs to the Basic studies category and focuses on the subcategory of Literature. Though it has not yet garnered any reviews, it offers an extraordinary opportunity for learners to delve into the minds of some of history's most notable authors.

The course begins with the Enlightenment period, where learners will explore the revolutionary ideas of Voltaire, especially his famous assertion that "You Must Cultivate Your Own Garden." This introduction sets the stage for understanding the personal responsibility and philosophical inquiries that drive much of Western literature.

Following Voltaire, the course delves into the soul-searching works of Goethe, whose influence extends far beyond mere literary circles. Goethe's profound insights offer perspectives that remain relevant today, providing a deep dive into the human condition and the quest for meaning.

Edward Gibbon’s contributions are then examined, offering students a look into historical analysis and reflective thought through literature. Gibbon’s works serve as a bridge between classical wisdom and modern intellect.

The course continues with an exploration of Jane Austen’s social critiques and intricate character studies, shedding light on societal norms and personal relationships in the context of her time. Austen’s novels remain timeless, offering valuable lessons in empathy and moral integrity.

Gustave Flaubert’s literary innovations are next, providing learners an opportunity to understand the meticulous craftsmanship and psychological depth in his works. Flaubert’s influence on narrative style and real-life portrayal remains impactful.

As the journey progresses, Charles Dickens’ vivid depictions of Victorian society bring to life the struggles and triumphs of their time, stimulating critical thought about social justice and human resilience. His storytelling prowess ensures a captivating learning experience.

Then, the course introduces the grandeur and moral philosophies of Leo Tolstoy, whose epic narratives offer deep insights into human nature and existential themes. Tolstoy's works continue to resonate with readers worldwide, making his inclusion essential in any literary study.

Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s penetrating psychological explorations are then covered, allowing for a deep reflection on the complexities of human behavior and ethical dilemmas. His works challenge readers to ponder profound questions about morality and society.

The contributions of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Oscar Wilde are then introduced, highlighting their unique perspectives on individuality and artistic expression. Their works provide contrasting yet complementary views on self-reliance and aestheticism.

The course also touches on Charles Darwin’s influence through his literary contributions, bridging the gap between science and literature. Following Darwin, the narrative complexity and innovative styles of James Joyce and Marcel Proust are examined. Learners will particularly enjoy an audiobook session of Proust's "In Search of Lost Time."

The modernist breakthroughs of Virginia Woolf and the existential ponderings of Franz Kafka offer deeper intellectual pursuits, while George Orwell and Samuel Beckett provide striking commentaries on power and modernist angst. C. P. Cavafy’s poetic contributions further enrich the course with his evocative explorations of history and identity.

Albert Camus’ existential explorations in "The Plague" and James Baldwin’s powerful reflections on race and identity round out the literary journey, alongside contemporary insights from Alain de Botton on therapeutic applications of literature. This course offers a comprehensive and immersive exploration of li.

Conteúdo do Curso

Video class: LITERATURE - Voltaire

0h12m
Exercise: What was Voltaire's perspective on religion?
Video class: Why Voltaire Said: You Must Cultivate Your Own Garden

0h06m
Video class: LITERATURE - Goethe

0h10m
Exercise: Which of these concepts did Johann Wolfgang von Goethe eventually advocate for in his view of love, moving away from the romanticism depicted in 'The Sorrows of Young Werther'?
Video class: LITERATURE - Edward Gibbon

0h03m
Exercise: What can history, as narrated by Edward Gibbon in 'The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire,' teach us about contemporary societal troubles?
Video class: LITERATURE - Jane Austen

0h07m
Exercise: What central theme is emphasized in Jane Austen's portrayal of characters like Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice?
Video class: LITERATURE - Gustave Flaubert

0h09m
Exercise: Which of the following best encapsulates the main theme of Gustave Flaubert's novel 'Madame Bovary' as discussed in the text?
Video class: LITERATURE - Charles Dickens

0h10m
Exercise: What central belief did Charles Dickens hold about the role of writing and entertainment?
Video class: LITERATURE: Leo Tolstoy

0h09m
Exercise: What is the primary function of novels according to Leo Tolstoy?
Video class: LITERATURE - Fyodor Dostoyevsky

0h13m
Exercise: What is the primary theme that Dostoyevsky is critical of in 'Notes from the Underground'?
Video class: LITERATURE - Ralph Waldo Emerson

0h10m
Exercise: Which of the following was not a direct influence on Ralph Waldo Emerson's philosophy according to the text?
Video class: LITERATURE - Oscar Wilde

0h09m
Exercise: What was the consequence of Oscar Wilde deciding to sue the Marquis of Queensberry for libel?
Video class: LITERATURE - Charles Darwin

0h04m
Exercise: According to Darwin's perspective in 'The Descent of Man', what is the reason that humans are still fundamentally at the same moral level as their remote ancestors?
Video class: LITERATURE - James Joyce

0h13m
Exercise: What central theme in James Joyce's work reflects his portrayal of ordinary daily life as grand and significant?
Video class: LITERATURE - Marcel Proust

0h09m
Exercise: What is the ultimate lesson Marcel Proust's 'In Search of Lost Time' teaches about the meaning of life?
Video class: Marcel Proust - In Search of Lost Time Audiobook

0h26m
Exercise: In the provided text, the narrator experiences various memories upon waking up at night. How is the concept of habit linked to these memories and the narrator's sense of identity?
Video class: LITERATURE - Virginia Woolf

0h10m
Exercise: What is the central theme that Virginia Woolf tried to convey through her literary works?
Video class: LITERATURE: Franz Kafka

0h10m
Exercise: What concept originated from the emotional and psychological themes in Franz Kafka's literary works?
Video class: LITERATURE - George Orwell

0h13m
Exercise: What did George Orwell believe to be the ultimate reason for the existence of literature?
Video class: LITERATURE - Samuel Beckett

0h10m
Exercise: What is notable about Samuel Beckett's connection to cricket?
Video class: LITERATURE - C. P. Cavafy

0h03m
Exercise: What is the central theme of Constantine Cavafy's poem 'Ithaca' as described in the text?

This free course includes:

4 hours and 49 minutes of online video course

Exercises to train your knowledge

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