English 356

Studies in Poetry

Studies in Poetry: Medieval Lyric is designed to introduce students to the varieties of lyric expression in the European Middle Ages. The course is not arranged chronologically, but students will develop an understanding of the development of ideas and styles over time. The focus, however, is on grasping the interdependent and trans-national nature of lyric in this period. We will be hearing songs often during the course, for a large percentage of these poems are indeed song lyrics. All the required texts are available in translation; some are also available in their original languages. Even though students may not read these languages, it is still possible to examine rhyme scheme, repetition, and other selected techniques without direct language comprehension.

In addition to the two texts, a number of books have been placed on reserve in the library for this course. Additional supplemental material can be found on CD-ROM at the curriculum lab (ITC 204): Medieval Realms, The Arthurian Tradition, and English Poetry Plus. Films (ITC 103) include: Music in the 12th Century, 1492, and two episodes of Joseph Campbell's myth series, The Holy Grail and Courtly Love. Also, an annotated list of useful web sites can be found under Eng 356 at http://www.wou.edu/liberalartsscience/humanities/english/hardingc/index.htm.

Offered Winter Quarter