In the course the students learn how different theories of literature have emerged as responses to particular issues in literature, in other theories of literature, and outside literature. The students learn to frame literary issues using concepts in literary theory.

During the course the students develop an understanding of different theories of literature, and gives students tools to frame literary issues in theoretically informed ways.

After completing this course, the student

1) understands some of the most important distinctions in the theory of literature;

After completing this course, the student

2) can practice techniques of analysis through concepts and reflect on their own ability to produce interpretations, and;

After completing this course, the student

3) can seek and evaluate further information within the field of literary theory.

The language of instruction is English.

Learning activities are lectures, seminars, written assignments, self-studies of course literature and independent work on a particular topic.

The course is examined through one oral exam (2,5 credits) and one written assignment (5 credits). Learning outcomes 1-3 are examined in both examinations.

The Norton Anthology of Theory & Criticism, ed. Vincent B. Leitch et al. (W.W. Norton & Co. 2001)

William Shakespeare, Othello, ed. Kenneth Muir (Penguin Shakespeare 2005)

Virginia Woolf, Mrs Dalloway, ed. Merry M. Pawlowski (Wordsworth Classics 1996)

Further materials to be made available via Its Learning.

The course is concluded with an individual course evaluation focusing on the goals of the course. The evaluations are summarized and made available to the students at the completion of the course.

When a course is no longer given, or when the content has been changed to a large degree, the student will be offered two opportunities, during a one year period, to be examined according to the course plan which was valid at the time of registration.

The language of instruction is English.