English 380
Required Texts:
Recommended Texts:
Films
Goals:
In this class, we will trace the use of Arthurian legend in literature,
artwork, film and music of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
This READING INTENSIVE course will focus on the ways in which various
writers and artists have used the legends to convey different "meanings."
In addition to presenting a selection of significant literary and other artistic works,
the course aims to remind us of the fact that all such works are the product of a specific
historical and cultural context and can be "read" and interpreted in ways that shed light
on the values and goals of the artists which produced them.
Course Information:
This is a READING INTENSIVE course. You will need to keep up with the readings,
which are to be completed BEFORE class on the date assigned. Be prepared to DISCUSS
readings in class. Note that the length and difficulty of assignments vary,
so look ahead when planning your time. You are responsible for ALL assigned readings,
whether fully discussed in class or not, as well as for the additional background
material presented in lectures, handouts and class discussion. You are expected as a
matter of course to read the introductions in all texts, assigned pages in the Arthurian
Handbook, and any handouts. You should be aware of, and consult as needed, the works on
reserve and the Arthurian Encyclopedia.
Some classes will begin with an unannounced READING QUIZ. Quizzes will cover background information and primary readings. Expect factual questions on works and authors read/viewed and on key characters, themes or plot developments in readings/films. There may be passages to identify. You will NOT do well on quizzes unless you keep up with readings! Please note that quizzes may not be made up; if you miss class, a copy will be provided as a study guide. No extra time is given if you come late--so come to class on time!
Starting in week four, ORAL PRESENTATIONS will offer an interpretation of a work not on the general syllabus (some literary, some artistic) or a deeper appreciation of a film. Panelists will help to moderate the ensuing discussion. Please note that you will need to start researching your topic immediately in order to obtain materials through Interlibrary Loan. Panelists should make use of materials on reserve in the library and meet with each other and with Dr. Schwartz ASAP (no later than the third week of class) for bibliographic suggestions and to discuss focus of presentations. Panelists will prepare a short annotated bibliography of secondary sources to distribute in class on day of presentation. For group presentations, you will initial your individual contributions so that appropriate credit may be assigned.
Other WRITTEN WORK will consist of 2 short analytic PAPERS (3-4 pp.). Topics will be chosen from a list of suggestions or worked out in conference.
EXAMS:
A closed-book Midterm and a closed-book Final Exam.
Exams will consist of factual questions (from introductory materials,
handouts and lectures, and critical essays), identification of key
passages from primary texts, and essay.
Attendance Requirement:
Because of the twice-a-week format, any absence results
in missing a substantial portion of the course.
For this reason, regular and punctual attendance is required.
Your participation grade starts at a 4.0.
EACH ABSENCE WILL LOWER PARTICIPATION PORTION OF FINAL GRADE.
If you have a valid reason for missing class (illness,
family crisis, other unavoidable conflict), TELL ME.
Your participation grade will drop one increment for
each unexcused absence (from A [4.0] to A- [3.7] to B+ [3.3], etc.)
but only .1 for each excused absence (4.0 to 3.9 to 3.8 etc.)
In order for an absence to be excused, you must turn in a
signed written explanation of your absence (including your name,
class and date missed) the next time you attend class.
A telephone or e-mail message is NOT sufficient. Any absence
for which you do not provide this written explanation will be
recorded as unexcused. Please note: work conflicts and job
interviews are NOT valid reasons for missing class; you are
responsible for keeping work commitments from conflicting with
academic ones. Exception: if you are a graduating senior and
must travel out of town for a final interview, ONE such absence
will count as excused. Please do not schedule local interviews
during class time.
Grading:
For assignment and exam dates please see the schedule.