Time Schedule:
Andrew Nestingen
SCAND 315
Seattle Campus
Studies Scandinavian crime-fiction literature and cinema since 1965, approaching crime fiction as a changing cultural artifact. Analyzes major issues and texts in the genre and its public status, while also training students in critical approaches to study of popular literature and culture. Offered: jointly with EURO 315; Sp.
Class description
We read seven Scandinavian crime novels over ten weeks, covering Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. We move from the 1970s (a novel by Maj Sjowall and Per Wahloo called "The Terrorists") to the present (Stieg Larsson's "Girl With the Dragon Tattoo"). The course is based largely on discussion and writing about the novels.
Student learning goals
Acquire a critical vocabulary of twenty-one terms for analysis of crime fiction(generally relevant literary terms)
Acquire a critical vocabulary of twenty-one terms for analyzing contemporary Scandinavian crime fiction (specific cultural terms)
Use this vocabulary and critical analytical skills to speak about Scandinavian crime fiction and to write two short papers and a final paper on specific issues in the contemporary Scandianvian crime novel
General method of instruction
Short lecture and discussion
Recommended preparation
Students should be prepared to read a lot of literature. The reading is enjoyable (crime novels!), but there is plenty of it. This is a course for students who are up to the challenge or reading and analyzing interesting books.
Class assignments and grading
Students write three papers over the course of the quarter. The first two are 2-3 pages, the final paper 6-7. (The final paper may be a revision and extension of one of the earlier papers.) Students may complete a 'w' credit, if they choose.
Grades are based on participation and writing assignments.
