Expository writing based on analysis of selected masterpieces of ancient and modern literature. R1A satisfies the first half of the Reading and Composition requirement, and R1B satisfies the second half.

To say that ‘to love is to live’ is nothing less than to affirm the proximity between these two actions, where, if nothing else, only a meager vowel separates the two. Love attests to a paradoxical type of freedom: we must be free to love; yet, when we are in love, we are unable to freely choose who or what it is that we love. Once ensnared in its warm embrace, love encircles us like a python, squeezing gently (sometimes not) until it completely surrounds us. But love can swallow and transform our world as quickly as it departs from it, leaving us only with malady. Throughout the semester we will be examining a variety of texts concerning the idea of love, assessing how certain authors across history have expressed this complicated passion. This course satisfies half of the University’s Reading & Composition sequence and is recommended for students who completed R1A or placed out of the R1A requirement. This course is designed to help students improve their skills in critical thinking, reading, and analytical writing. Students will learn how to write with clarity, precision, and nuance through reflective engagement at all stages of the writing process, from brainstorming to proofreading. In addition to regular attendance, reading and participation, assignments will include a diagnostic paper and two longer essays—as well as weekly discussion posts. Students will also develop the skills needed to successfully incorporate incorporating secondary sources into analytical writing. This is a reading- and writing-intensive course.

Requisites

• UC Entry Level Writing Requirement or UC Analytical Writing Placement Exam. 1A or equivalent is prerequisite to 1B.

Credit Restrictions

Students will receive no credit for COM LIT R1B after completing COM LIT N1B, COM LIT S1B, COM LIT H1B, or COM LIT 1B.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills