English 268 - Cognitive Theory & Lit Studies

A survey of philosophical, scientific, and theoretical approaches to the relation between cognition and representation. For as long as we have told stories, we have thought about how they work in conjunction with the mind. This course charts the many ways in which cognitive theory has shaped literary studies over the ages. How does fiction reflect the way we think? How in turn does it shape how we behave? What happens in the brain and body when we read? Starting in antiquity and working through history towards contemporary neuroscience and cognitive psychology, we will consider such matters as action and imitation; reality and fantasy; reason and imagination; aesthetics, empathy, and affect.

Course limited to sophomores, juniors and seniors