ENGL 1205: Introduction to Literature

My current incarnation of this course is the "Literature of Exile."  Here's the description from the syllabus:

Rather than attempt to squeeze an overview of Western literary output into the space of one term, this course's aim is more modest: to pursue a major literary theme, "Exile," into some interesting (I hope) modern and classical manifestations.  To some extent, all the course readings examine society and the individual's place within it from the perspective of the "exile," a person observing from an unusual or "privileged" perspective.  I hope this will instigate what I feel should be the primary function of literature at the introductory level - to enhance reflection on personal identity, one's place in society, and the universe at large.

However, we are not just going to sit around randomly philosophizing. English is also about learning to express your reflections in speech and writing.  So, although the discussion of literature will take up much of our time in class, I will try to direct such discussion, whenever possible, to the development of thesis statements -- i.e., propositions around which we can construct arguments.  Through close reading and critical analysis coupled with various in-class and online tutorials, we will try to sharpen your writing skills as well as your reading abilities.