COMP 111(F) The Nature of Narrative (Same as English 120) (W)*
How does narration work in the various traditions of storytelling? And what do
stories do for us? The Nature of Narrative explores the structures and functions
of narrative across time and across cultures. Literary readings may include
works by Homer, Cervantes, Goethe, Dostoevsky, Kafka, Lispector, Cortazar, el
Saadawi, and Morrison. We will also discuss popular, improvisatory, and other
non-traditional forms of narration, such as TV shows, slam poetry, and blogs.
Throughout, we will also engage with some of the most interesting theories of
narrative, from Aristotle to Zizek and beyond.
Format: seminar. Requirements: active and consistent class participation, two 5-
to 7-page papers plus revisions, final 8- to 10-page paper.
No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 19 (expected: 19). Preference given to
students considering a major in Comparative Literature or Literary Studies and
who have studied a foreign language.