This course looks at the role objects play in literary texts and has three objectives: It wants to, first of all, introduce students to the field of material culture and to the importance of objects in literary and cultural studies. Secondly, we are going to look at literary texts in which objects are the engine of narrative. We will concentrate on dystopian fiction and on love stories in which the plot is object-driven. Thirdly, students will be introduced to describing and to telling an object’s story themselves.
As the course contains analytical, reflective, and creative elements, it will conclude with a portfolio, which we will work on continuously during the semester. The portfolio will consist of three 1-page reflections due after each thematic block; a 3-4-pages object biography which we will work on in three steps during the term; a 6-8-pages deepening essay (a mini term paper) to be added after completing the course, as well as 2-pages reflection on the learning process.
As it contains various didactic and practical elements, this course is especially suited for aspiring teachers.
Books to buy and read: Emily St. John Mandel Station Eleven; Leanne Shapton Important Artifacts and Personal Property from the Collection of Lenore Doolan and Harold Morris, Including Books, Street Fashion and Jewelry. All other texts will be provided on Moodle.
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