Time Schedule:
Marianne T Stecher
SCAND 462
Seattle Campus
The fiction of Isak Dinesen (pseudonym for Karen Blixen) reevaluated in light of current issues in literary criticism, particularly feminist criticism. Close readings of selected tales, essays, and criticism. Offered: jointly with GWSS 462.
Class description
This course is an opportunity to study some of the “masterpieces” of Danish writer Karen Blixen (1885 – 1962), who published in English as “Isak Dinesen.” We will read Out of Africa (1938) and selections from Seven Gothic Tales (1934), as well as tales from other collections, such as “Sorrow Acre” and “Babette’s Feast.” A selection of Karen Blixen’s essays will give insight to her views on gender and other significant issues of her day. Finally, we will consider a number of different critical approaches to her work, including feminist and postcolonial theory, as well as eco-criticism and even animal ethics. Students will be encouraged to develop their own observations on the texts in short, non-graded “response letters.”
Student learning goals
To gain a knowledge of the literary work and contributions of Karen Blixen (Isak Dinesen), in cultural, historical, literary, and political contexts.
To develop vocabularies for the study of gender, women, and sexuality in literary fiction and criticism.
To exercise literary analysis and interpretative skills for discussing and writing about fiction, through a study of various literary genres.
To develop the skills of inquiry-driven research and scholarship.
General method of instruction
Method of instruction is student-centered and active. Lectures and structured small group discussions are also part of the instructional method. The presentation of the material and the assignments are inquiry-driven. A number of exercises are also specifically designed to foster the development of the skills of research and scholarship.
Recommended preparation
The course is geared for advanced undergraduates and graduate students in Humanities and Social Sciences, including European Studies, Scandinavian Studies, Women Studies and related fields. 1. Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen), Out of Africa and Shadows on the Grass 2. Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen), Seven Gothic Tales (selections) 3. Isak Dinesen, Daguerreotypes and Other Essays.
Class assignments and grading
Evaluation criteria: Grades will be based on course participation and the completion of writing assignments. The principle assignment is the development of an interpretative essay, which relates in an original way to the overriding concerns of the course.
Note that Ad Hoc W (Writing) credit is available for this course. Students will engage in graded and non-graded writing assignments throughout the quarter. The final course grade will be based on the following criteria:
20% Prepared participation in class discussions. 20% Four 1-page response "letters." 50% Term Paper: 10 pages. 10% Final exam, in-class essay (choice of questions).
