Masters of the Macabre
	Chris Robinson

See other courses taught by Chris Robinson

Presentation
This course will survey major writers of gothic, horror, and supernatural fiction, including Edgar Poe, Arthur Machen, Algernon Blackwood, H.P. Lovecraft, and others.

Teaching Objectives
1. To familiarize students with one of the most important genres in English and American literature. 2. To introduce students to some of the artistic, psychological, sociological, and political questions raised by this genre. 3. To broaden reading skills and sharpen analytical ones. 4. To practice "speaking up" in a classroom environment.

Format:
Seven weekly meetings of 3 hours each.

Course Content
The course will focus largely on short fiction with occasional excerpts from longer works. Where possible, we will view screen adaptations of writings by the authors under discussion.

Teaching Methods
All readings are to be completed before class meetings. Class time will be divided between lectures that introduce various critical approaches to literature of the fantastic, oral presentations, and discussions with students about the texts.

Individual Work
Students should count on reading 10-15 pages per week. Class preparation and participation are mandatory. Required assignments will include an oral presentation, an in-class written exam, and a typed essay prepared at home.

Evaluation
Final grades will be based on class participation and writing assignments.

Recommended level
This course is beneficial to students with an intermediate or advanced level of English.

See other courses taught by Chris Robinson

last updated February, 2003

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