2021 Spring SCANDIN R5B 001 LEC 001

Course Catalog Description

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

In modern and medieval literature, the presence of dreams often foreshadows future events, divining good fortune, apocalyptic ends, or alternate dimensions. As texts, prophecies, dreams, and signs all demand to be interpreted. This course will consider prophetic visions and dream narratives, especially in their use as literary motifs, as processes of semiosis and ways of apprehending their literary worlds. Dreams and visionary literature rely heavily on the visual imagination. As an approach to visuality in the text, we will question what elements of imagination can be viewed through certain semiotic techniques. Regarding the themes of dreams and prophecy narratives, we will ask such questions as: do such signs portend unavoidable futures and fates? Do these narratives depict worlds built from images of the “real” or from another source of invention? In doing so, we will examine how the theoretical spaces and timelines created and revealed in these narratives might come to shape and determine their respective story-worlds. As we engage with the symbols, metaphors, and allegories in these stories we will question whether these signs might serve other functions in the text, perhaps revealing political and social agendas. In this course, we will read texts from a range of literary genre and periods, drawing heavily from Scandinavian materials: medieval mythological poetry; Old Icelandic sagas; Christian visions and eschatology; folklore traditions concerning the supernatural; and more recent texts that make use of visionary themes including: gothic tales, lyric, short stories, and the novella. In addition to these primary texts, this course will also draw from several works by literary critics who contributed to semiotic theory. All course materials will be read in English translation. As part of the University’s R&C requirement, this R5B course is designed, above all, to help students refine their critical reading and writing skills. To this end, we will work on formulating nuanced theses, finding and evaluating textual evidence, conducting research, and incorporating secondary research into written essays.

Class Notes

This course satisfies the second half or the “B” portion of the Reading and Composition requirement.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of the “A” portion of the Reading & Composition requirement or its equivalent. Students may not enroll in nor attend R1B/R5B courses without completin.. show more

This course satisfies the second half or the “B” portion of the Reading and Composition requirement.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of the “A” portion of the Reading & Composition requirement or its equivalent. Students may not enroll in nor attend R1B/R5B courses without completing this prerequisite.

Due to the high demand for R&C courses we monitor attendance very carefully. Attendance is mandatory the first two weeks of classes, this includes all enrolled and wait listed students. If you do not attend all classes the first two weeks you may be dropped. If you are attempting to add into this class during weeks 1 and 2 and did not attend the first day, you will be expected to attend all class meetings thereafter and, if space permits, you may be enrolled from the wait list. show less

Rules & Requirements

Requisites

Previously passed an R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Previously passed an articulated R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Score a 4 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature. Score a 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Language and Composition. Score of 5, 6, or 7 on the International Baccalaureate Higher Level Examination in English.