Course content

Literary history is an area of study providing a survey of Norwegian and, to a certain extent, other Scandinavian literature, in a historical context. By reading a selection of literary texts the students will interpret these in a historical perspective and as historical phenomena. The students should also learn to read literary historical descriptions by taking into account the views on literature and the understanding of history which underlies them.

Learning outcome

Candidates will have obtained the following qualifications after successfully completing this course:

Knowledge

• knowledge of the development of Nordic, especially Norwegian, literature from Old Norse till the present.
• knowledge of how Nordic literature is influenced by international trends

Skills

• the ability to understand fiction, factual prose and essays within the historical context in which they were written, and as historical phenomena
• the ability to present and discuss problems of the history and historiography of literature which are addressed
• be in control of accurate phrasing and bibliographical standards

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and seminars. The students may not expect that the entire curriculum will be covered in the lectures. Student activity is central to the instruction. Collaborating in discussion groups is a helpful supplement to the instruction and the individual studies, and the students are therefore encouraged to participate in the discussion groups arranged by the department, and to form their own groups.

Obligatory assignments:

• Minimum 75 % participation in lectures
• 2 approved written assignments.

The absence limit is intended to cover normal sick leave and similar situations, and you will not be granted valid absence from teaching based on a medical certificate, even if the absence is due to circumstances beyond your control. In special cases, agreements for exemption can be made with the course coordinator, preferably at the start of the semester.

Language requirements: Both the obligatory assignment and the exam for NORD1108 must be written in Bokmål.

Approved obligatory assignments are valid for 2 semesters (the semester in which the approval is given, plus the following semester).

Compulsory assignments

• Two approved written assignments
• Minimum 75% attendance at lectures

Course materials

The reading list will be available first day of class. The students will read an introductory work that presents literary epochs and authorships. They should also get acquainted with various principles and theories concerning the writing of literary history. This will be obtained by reading articles on literary historiography. The collection of literary works is representative for Norwegian literature from the different epochs, and from different genres and styles. The students will also read a selection of factual prose and essays.

Credit reductions