Masterpieces of World Literature

About

This literature course explores how great writers refract their world and how their works are transformed when they intervene in our global cultural landscape today.

No national literature has ever grown up in isolation from the cultures around it; from the earliest periods, great works of literature have probed the tensions, conflicts, and connections among neighboring cultures and often more distant regions as well.

Focusing particularly on works of literature that take the experience of the wider world as their theme, this course will explore the varied artistic modes in which great writers have situated themselves in the world, helping us to understand the deep roots of today's intertwined global cultures.

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What you will learn

• The history of World Literature
• How literary works and books are transformed by cultural transmission
• How to critically analyze literary works
• The significance of major technological advances in writing

Syllabus

Texts/authors considered in the course:

Section 1:Goethe and the Birth of World Literature
Section 2: The Epic of Gilgamesh
Section 3: Homer, The Odyssey
Section 4: The 1001 Nights
Section 5: Murasaki Shikibu, The Tale of Genji
Section 6: The Lusiads
Section 7: Voltaire, Candide
Section 8:Lu Xun and Eileen Chang
Section 9: Jorge Luis Borges, Ficciones
Section 10:Wole Soyinka, Death and the King's Horseman
Section 11:Salman Rushdie and Jhumpa Lahiri
Section 12: Orhan Pamuk, My Name is Red

Auto Summary

"Masterpieces of World Literature" invites you on an enlightening global journey through the rich tapestry of world literature, exploring influential works from various cultures and time periods. Offered by edX, this foundational course delves into the past, present, and future of literary masterpieces, providing a comprehensive understanding of their significance and impact. Under the expert guidance of renowned instructors, you will engage with a diverse array of texts, gaining insights into the cultural and historical contexts that shaped them. The course is designed to cater to both beginners and enthusiasts in the field of arts and humanities, ensuring a rewarding experience for all participants. With flexible subscription options, including Professional and Starter plans, you can tailor your learning experience to fit your needs and schedule. Whether you're looking to deepen your appreciation for world literature or seeking to broaden your cultural horizons, this course offers an exceptional opportunity to immerse yourself in the timeless world of literary art.