Spring 2018 - ENGL 375 D100
Studies in Rhetoric (4)
Class Number: 1516
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Tue, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Sean Zwagerman
szwagerm@sfu.ca
Office: 6141 AQ
Office Hours: Tuesdays 12:30 - 2:00, Wednesdays 2:30 - 4:00, and by appointment
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Prerequisites:
Two 100 division English courses, and two 200 division English courses. Recommended: One of English 199/199W or 214.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Advanced study in the theory and/or history of rhetoric. The course may be repeated for credit if a different topic is taught, though students who obtained credit for English 375 prior to Summer 2015 may not take this course for further credit.
COURSE DETAILS:
Humour and Rhetoric
This course offers an historical overview, from the sophists and Cicero to Kenneth Burke and Louis C. K., of the relationship between rhetoric and humour. We’ll read some influential works in rhetorical theory and in humour studies, and look at examples of humour in politics, fiction, interpersonal communication, academic writing, and stand-up comedy. Though definitions of rhetoric vary widely, all seem to agree that it has to do with using words or images effectively. As academic writers, we’re taught that “effective” means logical, unambiguous, appropriate, and serious. Since humour seems often to be none of those things, how can it be rhetorically effective? What can it accomplish? Can it do things that “serious” language cannot? Alternately, when and why does humour fail? If we consider the interaction of humour with the “rhetorical triangle” of text, speaker, and audience, we generate more questions:
- regarding the text: How do we determine if something is ironic?
- regarding the writer or speaker: What are the benefits and the drawbacks of choosing to use humor, of playing the role of humorist?
- regarding the audience: If we laugh at something others deem offensive, what does that say about us?
Grading
- reliable attendance 5%
- productive participation 10%
- four brief in-class reading quizzes 20%
- two short writing assignments, based on selected readings (c3 pages each) 30%
- 8-page academic essay, or an equivalent alternative 35%
NOTES:
You are likely to encounter at least one thing in this course that offends you. But someone else won't find it offensive at all! Interesting, isn't it?
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
A courseware package available at the bookstore
Department Undergraduate Notes:
IMPORTANT NOTE Re 300 and 400 level courses: 75% of spaces in 300 level English courses, and 100% of spaces in 400 level English courses, are reserved for declared English Major, Minor, Extended Minor, Joint Major, and Honours students only, until open enrollment begins.
For all On-Campus Courses, please note the following:
- To receive credit for the 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