Course content

The course offers an introduction to the genres of poetry and epics in the oldest literary tradition. We read some of the most prominent masterpieces in the literary canon, from Greek and Roman antiquity; Italian, English and French Renaissance; European medieval and baroque literature, and into the Enlightenment of the eighteenth-century. The students learn fundamental analytical approaches to texts and genres, and they get insights into how social, cultural and aesthetic contexts have shaped the literature of the past. The course is organised in two modules: In the epic and novel course, we read works by Homer, Dante, Cervantes, and several more. In the poetry-course, we read poems by Sappho, Petrarch, Shakespeare, and many more.

Learning outcome

The candidate will after successfully completing this course have KNOWLEDGE about:

- the outlines of Western literature from the Antiquity until 1800

- of essential literary works within the genres, epic poetry and lyric poetry

- of the origin, development and poetics within these genres

The candidate will after successfully completing this course be SKILLED in:

- presenting and discussing her/his acquired knowledge in writing

- employing comparative literary analytical tools.

The candidate’s GENERAL COMPETENCY includes:

- an understanding literature in an extensive aesthetic, historical and cultural connection

- a basic understanding of the function of the main literary genres.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and group sessions including written assignments. Obligatory activity: 1-2 obligatory activities, including one approved written assignment (4-5 pages) with feedback.

Compulsory assignments

• 1-2 obligatory activities

Course materials

A reading list will be available first day of class. Students that use the standard list do not have to hand in a reading list to the department. Students that want to use an alternative curriculum must apply for this by handing in an alternative reading list to the department for approval. Deadline is 10th of October in the autumn semester and 10th of March in the spring semester.

Credit reductions