Studies in Romantic Literature (353-0-20)

Topic

Austen and Irony

Instructors

Tristram Wolff

Meeting Info

University Hall 218: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

This class is a reading-intensive study of a selection of Jane Austen's novels, with strong emphasis on close reading the innovative language of her prose. Though best known for her contributions to the popular genres of romance, Austen has always been a writer's writer, meticulous in composition and renowned as a stylist. Our focus will be on the satirical edges of her work, and on understanding how irony works in her novels. We'll read some 18th century precursors and some recent criticism as help, but most of the class will be spent with Austen herself. In addition to the novels listed, we'll read from her early writings, letters, and the epistolary novella Lady Susan.

Teaching Method

Short lectures and seminar discussion.

Evaluation Method

Attendance & participation; quizzes; short writings assignments; midterm; longer final writing assignment.

Class Materials (Required)

Jane Austen, Emma ( ‎ 0141439580)
Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice (0141439513)
D. A. Miller, Jane Austen, or the Secret of Style (069112387X)

Class Attributes

Advanced Expression
Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
SoC Humanities and Fine Arts Distro