Training in writing expository prose. Further instruction in expository writing in conjunction with reading literature. Satisfies the second half of the Reading and Composition requirement.

This course will be a thorough investigation of one of the most important poetic forms in literary history: the epic poem. In the period we will be looking at, which ranges from the 8th century BC to the 1660s AD, the epic poem held a prominence far above any other literary form, and was seen as the greatest height a poet could attain. But in addition to the status of the epic as an ornate and finely crafted work of literary art, we will use our readings to investigate a famous definition of the epic as offered by Ezra Pound, that it is “a poem containing history.”  Through close readings of three epics, Homer's Iliad, Virgil's Aeneid, and Beowulf, as well as selections from others, we will be able to see how the epic, even more so than other literary forms, became the most potent literary expression of historical narrative, and how each epic stands in relation to the history and development of the form. Along the way, we will consider the literary devices that became so important to the epic tradition, especially epic simile, the relationship between the epic and the representation of politics and empire, the desire on the part of all of our authors to enumerate a religious ethic in a narrative poem, and the epic's influence on the development of the novel. In addition to cultivating your critical thinking and literary analysis skills, this course will help to strengthen your academic and analytic writing. Becoming a better writer requires practice; as such, you will be required to write several essays of increasing length as the semester progresses, as well as revise your writing heavily. We will also work on improving your writing through shorter assignments such as reflections, responses, and revisions. Moreover, since this course is R1B, we will focus on conducting original research, including finding sources and coming up with an original research topic. The class will culminate in a research paper on a topic of your choice.

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 and Composition. 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.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills