English 24

Other Readings and Media

Because we�ll be examining a number of passages closely each time, going quickly form passage to passage, we�ll need to locate these quickly by page number. For that reason it�s important that everyone have the same text of the two novels. I have chosen two paperback editions that are well-edited and easily available: Pride and Prejudice and Northanger Abbey (both Oxford World�s Classics editions).

Description

"This seminar is meant to be an interesting and pleasant introduction to the study of a great novelist: Jane Austen. We�ll read and discuss two novels: Pride and Prejudice and Northanger Abbey. We�ll approach the novels from a number of different perspectives, including (but not limited to): the roles of class and gender, Austen�s language, plot structure, �point of view,� the thematization of moral concerns, and the interplay of her fiction and the history of her time. We�ll also discuss various critical approaches to these two works.



Your responsibilities will be 1) to attend regularly, bringing with you the assigned texts (see the note about the specific editions, above); 2) to participate in discussion; 3) to make a 15-minute (not longer) presentation; and 4) to write a short essay (about 1500 words, 7-8 double-spaced pages) on a subject of your own choice, due at the last seminar meeting. I�ll be glad to read rough drafts of your essays in advance.



At our first meeting we�ll consider a number of possible presentation subjects for you to choose from, and of course you may also suggest your own. Each of you will have a meeting with me during my office hours to help prepare for this. Some of you may wish to collaborate on presentations. In the latter part of the term, conferences on choosing an essay topic will be encouraged.



I�ll begin by providing an introduction to the early Austen, using some passages from her early prose works, and we�ll talk about Pride and Prejudice. Please bring your copy of the Oxford World�s Classics edition and be prepared to discuss the first 100 or so pages."