Time Schedule:
Or Rogovin
C LIT 240
Seattle Campus
Comparative approach to literature and a workshop in writing comparative papers in English. Emphasis on cross-cultural comparison of literary works. Readings in English with an option to read selected texts in the original languages Offered: AWSp.
Class description
Crisis and Identity in Modern Jewish fiction
This section focuses on the theme of crisis and identity in modern Jewish fiction, with much attention to close reading and narrative techniques. The writers are Jewish but their writing deals with universal problems: ethnic or religious identity; the power of religious faith; immigration and immersion; personal development and demise; weak men and powerful women. We will be reading in English stories and novellas by twentieth century Jewish writers from different cultures and continents: Berkowitz and Liebrecht (Hebrew), Roth and Bellow (English), Singer (Yiddish), Kafka (German). The ultimate goal is to produce an interesting, precise, well-grounded, and well-articulated analysis of literary texts while making use of the approaches and techniques of Comparative Literature.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Lectures, class discussion, group work.
Recommended preparation
No association with Judasim or knowledge of Jewish culture is assumed or required. An interest in literature is recommended.
Class assignments and grading
Reading tasks and quizzes, short writing assignments,response papers and longer essays. Grades will be based on class participation, punctual attendance, on-time submission of writing assignments and papers.
