ENGL 40602 - Tragedy: Shakespeare and Melville

Institution:

University of Notre Dame

Subject:

English

Description:

In this course we will read some of the great tragic works in the English language, indeed, in all of literature. Our syllabus will cover four plays by Shakespeare and Melville's finest achievement, Moby-Dick. As the course title suggests, we will study these works in the context of their historical moments and in the context of tragedy as a genre. Reading Moby-Dick after Shakespeare will also enable us to witness in detail the nature of literary influence and to compare the tragic visions of Shakespeare and Melville as they explore such themes as good and evil, freedom and fate, and the individual and society. As we study these texts, we will consider the various reasons for their important place in the literary canon. Ultimately, let us make the most of our time together with works of art that are timeless in their beauty and ever timely in their relevance, works that continue to teach and to delight. Assignments include four essays (3 to 4 pages), a final exam, an oral presentation, and a daily question or close reading on the assigned text.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.nd.edu

Phone Number:

(574) 631-5000

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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