Spring 2015 - ENGL 105W J100
Introduction to Issues in Literature and Culture (3)
Class Number: 3571
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Jan 6 – Apr 13, 2015: Mon, 5:30–7:20 p.m.
Vancouver -
Exam Times + Location:
Apr 20, 2015
Mon, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
Vancouver
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Instructor:
Theodore Wisniewski
twa32@sfu.ca
Office Hours: Mon., 4:30 – 5:30 pm (check with instructor for meeting place)
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Prerequisites:
.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
An introduction to the study of literature within the wider cultural field, with a focus on contemporary issues across genres and media. Writing/Breadth-Humanities. Equivalent Courses: ENGL105 Writing/Breadth-Humanities.
COURSE DETAILS:
Introduction to Issues in Literature and Culture Imagined Worlds: Utopias and Dystopias The word “utopia” refers to an imagined, ideal world. At times it has been used pejoratively to critique ideals and agendas deemed unattainable and unrealistic. On the other hand, utopian visions have also been taken seriously as ways to critique existing societies and cultures and even to facilitate real change. Fictional utopias span a long history that includes such diverse works as B. F. Skinner’s Walden Two (1949); Francis Bacon’s The New Atlantis (1626); Thomas More’s Utopia (1516), and even Plato’s Republic (written around 360 B.C.) This course will provide a brief overview of this literary genre but will primarily focus on more modern texts, some of which fall under the related category of “dystopian” fiction. We’ll approach these works in light of their specific historical contexts, paying close attention to the ways they engage concerns related to economics, war, technology, and gender. We’ll also discuss the relevance of these texts to our own time, contrasting earlier critiques of the literature with more recent commentary.
Grading
- Participation (includes an online writing) component) 15%
- First Essay (1000 words) - includes two drafts 25%
- Second Essay (1500 words) 30%
- Final Exam 30%
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Gilman, Charlotte Perkins -- Herland and The Yellow Wallpaper and Selected Stories
ISBN: 9780143105855
Bradbury, Ray -- The Martian Chronicles
ISBN: 9781451678192
Skinner, B.F. -- Walden Two
ISBN: 9780872207783
Huxley, Aldous -- Brave New World
ISBN: 9780060776091
Orwell, George -- Nineteen Eighty Four
ISBN: 9780141187761
Department Undergraduate Notes:
To receive credit for this course, students must complete all requirements.
TUTORIALS/SEMINARS WILL BE HELD THE FIRST WEEK OF CLASSES
When choosing your schedule, REMEMBER TO CHECK "Show lab/tutorial sections" to see all Lecture/Seminar/Tutorial times required.
Registrar Notes:
SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.
Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS