"G. d'Annunzio"
PREREQUISITES
At least a basic knowledge of English is expected.
The texts chosen aim to provide students with material for reflection on topics of a philosophical, socio-political and linguistic nature in line with the objectives of the degree course. At the end of the course, students will be able to express themselves regarding the themes dealt with in the texts and also offer their own judgments besides commenting and analysing the works in question on a textual level ('close readings') and, finally, be able to offer a comparative analysis of the works in terms of content, style and ideology that will reflect an attentive and close reading.
The course will deal with the central themes of Nineteenth and Twentieth century English literature through an examination of works by authors representing different artistic sensibilities and stylistic approaches as well as different ways of confronting the epistemological, existential and moral dilemmas of the age.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Through an analitical reading of the texts, the course will explore the question of man’s relationship with power and the moral and emotional consequences of the loss of power, above all in the context of family relations. Particular attention will be devoted to the representation of the conflict between the social and personal spheres of the protagonists concerned and the importance of spiritual awakening which leads to redemption.
MAIN TEXTS
George Eliot, Silas Marner, Penguin. Thomas Hardy, The Mayor of Casterbridge, OUP. Jenny Uglow, George Eliot, Virago. Norman Page, Thomas Hardy, Routledge and Kegan Paul.
Other material may be indicated during the course.
Lezioni frontali con uso del powerpoint; dal contesto al testo e viceversa (analisi culturologica); lettura e commento di passi significativi dei testi primari (analisi semantico-strutturale), proiezioni di film e documentari (analisi intersemiotica).
Oral exam with marks out of 30. The topics will reflect those dealt with in the course. Besides showing an in-depth knowledge of the main texts students must be able to discuss issues appropriately and express their own reactions and opinions.
OTHER INFO.
Office hours to be decided during the first term. renzodagnillo@unich.it
