English 450 - Life Fictions

What can fiction teach us about how to live?  This course will explore the possibilities and limitations of narrative fiction as a source of instruction, the cultivation of judgment, and the opportunity for self-reflection.  There are no prerequisites, and students of all majors are welcome to enroll; however, the course is open to seniors only.  We will read and discuss a wide range of novels (as well as some short stories) with particular attention to the ways that these works illuminate the navigation of key stages of life — youth, education, parenthood, aging.  The course will consider how these narratives resonate with our own trajectories, encouraging students to reflect on their past experiences, present challenges, and future aspirations as they prepare for life after college. Students who enroll should be prepared to engage in close, careful reading, and in thoughtful reflection with their peers and their professor.  Participation in class dialogue will be essential.  Likely authors include Maxine Hong Kingston, Toni Morrison, Anton Chekhov, Edith Wharton, Cormac McCarthy, and Marilynne Robinson.

Open for seniors only. Limited to 25 students. Fall semester. Professor Elliott. 

How to handle overenrollment: Registrar will randomly select.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Close reading of literary texts; reflective writing; dialogue concerning complicated topics.