Free online courseModern Poetry

Course Description

The "Modern Poetry" course, led by Langdon Hammer, is a deep dive into the rich and diverse world of 20th-century poetry. Spanning 19 hours and 47 minutes, this course is meticulously designed for basic studies under the literature subcategory. Despite being yet to garner reviews, the course promises an enriching experience for those keen on understanding modern poetic forms and their historical contexts.

The course begins with an insightful introduction, setting the stage for the poets and themes that follow. Robert Frost, one of America's most celebrated poets, is the first focal point, with two dedicated sections delving into his nuanced, often deceptively simple work. Following Frost, the course turns to William Butler Yeats, offering a thorough three-part exploration that underscores his evolution from romanticism to modernism.

World War I Poetry in England serves as a poignant segment that captures the reflective and often tragic essence of wartime verse. This is followed by a session on Imagism, a vital movement in modern poetry that emphasized clarity, precision, and economy of language. Moving into individual poet studies, Ezra Pound, a key imagist and influential figure, is examined in detail.

T.S. Eliot, another towering figure largely influenced by Pound, receives three extensive sessions, highlighting his complex and often enigmatic poetry that reshaped modernist literature. Hart Crane's often overlooked but deeply impactful work receives two dedicated discussions. These poets offer a bridge to Langston Hughes, whose powerful voice in the Harlem Renaissance added a profound racial and cultural dimension to modern poetry.

William Carlos Williams, known for his groundbreaking free verse style, is discussed next, followed by the distinctive precision of Marianne Moore's poetry, which is accorded two sections. Wallace Stevens, with his unique philosophical and abstract verse, merits three comprehensive sessions, illustrating his profound influence on modern poetry.

W.H. Auden, another major figure whose work traversed numerous themes and styles, has two focused discussions. Elizabeth Bishop, celebrated for her meticulous attention to detail and emotional depth, concludes the course with two sections dedicated to her pioneering contributions.

This course is a remarkable journey through the revolutionary changes and enduring expressions of 20th-century poetry. Students will gain a nuanced understanding of each featured poet and an appreciation for the broader sweep of modern literary movements, culminating in a richer comprehension of modern poetry's varied and vibrant landscape.