Literature and Politics in Central and Eastern Europe (390-0-20)
Topic
From Sarmatians to Drag Queens
Instructors
Michal Janusz Wilczewski
1880 Campus Drive
Meeting Info
Locy Hall 214: Mon, Wed 3:30PM - 4:50PM
Overview of class
From Sarmatians to Drag Queens: Two Centuries of Polish Literature: This course examines the rich and dynamic past two centuries of Poland's multi-ethnic, -linguistic, and -religious literary traditions. Central to our course is the question of performance and identity—we will examine how the concept of Polishness changed over time and how various literary figures helped shaped that definition. We will read poems, novels, short stories, and plays on such topics as Polish romanticism and realism, the Young Poland movement, the interwar avant-garde, Polish-Jewish relations, wartime and Holocaust writings, and postwar and queer literature. Readings are offered in English translation and original Polish. Discussion in class is in English, no prior knowledge of Polish is necessary. Optional Polish language discussion and assignments for advanced language speakers possible.
Learning Objectives
Students will be introduced to the major literary movements of the last two centuries in Poland. They will learn about Polish history and culture, and develop an appreciation for Polish literature.
Teaching Method
Seminar
Evaluation Method
Attendance
Class participation
Group work
Paper, final
Papers
Quizzes
Readings
Class Materials (Required)
1. Michał Witkowski, Lovetown (ISBN: 9781846270529)
2. Marek Hlasko, The Graveyard (ISBN: 9781612192949)
3. Gabriela Zapolska, The Morality of Mrs. Dulska (9781841501666)
4. Eliza Orzeszkowa, Marta (ISBN: 9789821423134)
Class Attributes
Historical Studies Distro Area
Interdisciplinary Distro-rules apply
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area