Type of course

Theoretical subject.

First or second year at master's level.

Course content

Dealing with William Faulkner's most prominent works of the 1920s, 30s, and 40s, this course has a four-fold focus: its seeks to 1) define Faulkner's particular brand of literary modernism, 2) discuss the typical formal and thematic traits of his fiction, 3) situate his works in their Southern socio-cultural context, and 4) pursue close readings of particular texts.

The courser requires a bachelor's degree with intermediate courses in English or equivalent.

Objectives of the course

The students have the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge

-In-depth understanding of the work of a single author (Faulkner) within the context of broader aesthetic, cultural and historical paradigms.

-Understanding of the process of canon formation and notions of the literary and authorship in relation to a single body of work.

Skills

-Increased proficiency in writing and speaking English.

-Strengthened ability to explain ideas in a coherent manner with support from close readings of texts.

-Increased competence in interpreting literary texts in historical, cultural, and critical contexts.

-Improved ability to conduct original research, and to integrate ideas and concepts gleaned from research into students¿ own written work.

Language of instruction and examination

Teaching methods

Assessment

The following coursework requirements must be completed and approved in order to take the final exam:

Each student is required to give an oral  presentation of a topic (10-15 minutes). Each student must also lead the discussion during one 45-minute seminar session (or two students may lead the discussion together for a double session). The presentation and the discussion session must be approved by the teacher before the student can submit the end-of-term paper. The exam will be assessed on an A-F grades scale. Grades are A-E for passed and F for failed. 

Retake is offered in in the beginning of the following semester in cases of grade F or Fail. Deferred examination is offered in the beginning of the following semester if the student is unable to take the final exam due to illness or other exceptional circumstances. Registration deadline for retake is January 15 for autumn semester exams and August 15 for spring semester exams.

The exam will consist of:

Mid-term paper (up to 8 pages, double line spacing, submission after approximately nine weeks) and an end-of-term paper (up to 14 pages, double line spacing, submission at the end of the semester). The mid-term paper counts for 1/3 and the end-of-term paper for 2/3 of the final grade.

Performance in the course will be assessed with the grades A-F.

Exam language(s):    English

Recommended reading/syllabus

The Sound and the Fury

As I Lay Dying

Absalom, Absalom!

Light in August

Go Down, Moses

The Reivers