Free online courseLiterature

Course Description

The course "Literature" is an immersive journey into the world of classic and contemporary literature, boasting a comprehensive duration of 20 hours and 51 minutes. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars, it is a testimony to its quality and the engaging manner in which it has been crafted. This course falls under the category of Basic studies and resides in the subcategory of Literature, making it an ideal choice for those looking to delve into literary analysis, themes, and the art of storytelling.

The course begins with introductory sessions that lay the foundation for the exploration of literary works, providing students with the essential tools for critical analysis and a deep appreciation of literature. The journey then proceeds to an in-depth study of seminal texts across different genres and eras.

Starting with Richard Wright's "Black Boy," the course examines the poignant and powerful narratives shaped by themes of race, identity, and adversity. The examination continues with Flannery O'Connor's "Wise Blood," where themes of religious fervor, morality, and existentialism are dissected, enriching students' understanding of Southern Gothic literature.

The analysis extends to Vladimir Nabokov's controversial yet critically acclaimed "Lolita," a novel that challenges readers with its complex narrative style and provocative themes. A guest lecture by Andrew Goldstone interweaves additional perspectives, enhancing the depth of literary analysis.

The curriculum further explores the Beat Generation with Jack Kerouac's "On the Road," capturing the essence of post-war America and the quest for freedom through spontaneous prose. This journey also includes a study of J.D. Salinger's "Franny and Zooey," which provides insight into the intricacies of familial bonds and spiritual crises.

The exploration doesn't stop there; students delve into John Barth's "Lost in the Funhouse" and Thomas Pynchon's "The Crying of Lot 49," where postmodernist techniques and narrative structures push the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Toni Morrison's "The Bluest Eye" offers a profound exploration of racial identity and societal expectations.

Moving towards more contemporary works, Maxine Hong Kingston’s "The Woman Warrior" introduces themes of cultural identity and feminism through myth and memoir. Marilynne Robinson's "Housekeeping" is discussed in detail to uncover its rich themes of family and transience.

Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian" takes students into the grim and violent depiction of the American frontier, with deep thematic elements being drawn out across two sessions. Philip Roth's "The Human Stain" provides a critical look at issues of identity, secrecy, and societal judgment over three sessions.

The course curriculum also includes Edward P. Jones's "The Known World," a narrative offering profound reflections on slavery and freedom. In an inclusive approach, students have a choice novel, Jonathan Safran Foer's "Everything is Illuminated," giving them an opportunity to engage with a contemporary text of their preference.

The course culminates with a comprehensive review session to prepare students for their final exam, ensuring that all essential themes, literary techniques, and critical perspectives are revisited and consolidated. Overall, this literature course offers a rich, diverse, and structured journey through some of the most pivotal works in literary history.