EGL 261 - Modernism and Modernity

Course Units: 1.0

This course examines British fiction from the early twentieth-century, a period often referred to as the “modernist” era. The moderns experimented with new, different, and exciting ways of writing that perplexed many readers, yet such changes have come to be seen as important innovations in literary style. In addition to engaging with questions of form and style, the moderns were also interested in subjects that were previously viewed as taboo, questionable, and, as such, often unspeakable. These topics included trauma, the lasting effects of war, sexual experimentation, adultery, insanity, and newly carved out gender and familial roles. Throughout our term together, we will critically consider, discuss, and write about the dynamic between the content of modernist writing and its innovative style and form. Prerequisite(s): One 100-level English course or a score of 5 on the AP English Language or Literature and Composition test. CC: HUL, HUM ISP: GSWS