Reading and composition in connection with the representation of Scandinavia by outsiders and insiders. Satisfies the first half of the Reading and Composition requirement.

Heroes are pervasive in literature across all cultures and time periods. From the enduring interest in the epic works of classical civilization to the more modern narratives that have transcended the pages of comic books and found new life in big-budget Hollywood productions, almost everyone continues to enjoy following the hero’s journey. This course section will examine the role of the hero in medieval Icelandic storytelling and compare it with the evolution of the hero in modern adaptations. Classroom activities will provide a theater for students to hone their skills as writers, both individually and in collaboration with others. Significant class time will also be given to instruction in the skills of essay writing and critical thinking. Students should emerge from this class able to read a variety of text types analytically and critically; to distinguish valid interpretations or arguments from weak ones; to draft convincing informative arguments in clear, standard English; to read their own writing with a critical eye; and to give helpful, responsible feedback to colleagues on their written work. Required Texts  Saga of the Volsungs with the Saga of Ragnar Lothbrok. Translated by Jackson Crawford. ISBN: 9781624666339  Grettir’s Saga. Translated by Jesse Byock. ISBN: 9780192801524  “They Say/I Say” The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing – Third Edition. By Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein. ISBN: 9780393935844 Other readings will be made available on bCourses.

Requisites

• Satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing Requirement.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills