Time Schedule:
Aaron J Ottinger
ENGL 242
Seattle Campus
Critical interpretation and meaning in works of prose fiction, representing a variety of types and periods.
Class description
Reading Fiction, Constructing Narratives introduces students to five major works of fiction and investigates the power of narrative. 242 is a survey course so we will sample works from various historical periods and genres: works from the 1700s to the late 20th century, from romance to the postmodern. Simultaneously, we will consider the evolution of narrative, as well as narrative’s power extending beyond the text’s borders. Students will acquire tools for analyzing how narrative constructs and disrupts experience.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
Students should be prepared to write one long paper divided into two parts (a 5 page paper revised and extended to 10-12 pages), comparing and contrasting two different narrative strategies. Bi-weekly analyses of the novels are required as is daily participation during class discussion. While there may be an occasional lecture, class discussion will serve as our primary mode of engagement.
