Name: Cynthia Tsai
ENG _271: Introduction to Literature
Subtitle:
Fantasy Literature
Course Description:
Some of you perhaps see fantasy only as a form of entertainment and escapism, yet through this course we will examine some of the most popular fantasy works starting from the beginning of nineteenth century to present day.
We will explore this magical and wondrous world through discussions/lectures on how fantasy is represented as a genre and how culture, politics, identity and other issues are portrayed in our primary texts. We will also familiarize ourselves with fundamental terminology and methods of contextual and textual analysis. We aim to develop the ability to form a thesis/an argument in critical writing.
Key Texts:
Mary Shelley, Frankenstein
Lewis Carroll, Through the Looking Glass
Henry James, The Turn of the Screw
J. R. R. Tolkien, The Hobbit
C. S. Lewis, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
J. K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone)
(other supporting material will be on the Laulima site)
Class Requirements and Expectations:
Two short papers: 2-3 pages
Final paper: 5-7 pages
(all papers with drafts and peer evaluations)
Midterm exam
Final exam
Attendance/participation are mandatory