English 152

This version of Introduction to Narrative Fiction is subtitled Fictions of Authority. Both an introduction to the study of literature & an investigation of the nature of the acts of reading & writing, this course is intended to challenge notions of fact & fiction, author & authority.

Participants in this course will work on improving their skills as critical readers & effective writers while reflecting on questions of knowledge, power, & what it means to read & write.

Divided into three sections-- (1) What is writing . . . this? (2) What is a story? What isn't? (3) Dubious reading matters--the course itself is meant to function as a text to be examined, as a "fiction of authority."

Writings

Students will practice two genres of writing: (1) protocols--brief, exploratory response papers due frequently throughout the semester; (2) three formal, argumentative essays on which grades will largely be based. The latter must be typed (double-spaced) & submitted on the date due--late papers will be lowered one letter grade. In addition, students will form groups responsible for a brief presentation & for leading subsequent discussion during one class period; & of course all students are responsible for completing each reading assignment on time & participating in class discussions throughout the semester.

Readings

How to Participate in Fictions of Authority

In many ways, this course is precisely about participation. It requires that students get involved in the processes of making sense of the texts we read (both in class & out), that students become prepared to participate in the making of meaning. As we attempt various approaches to different sorts of literature, we should keep in mind the above words of Emerson regarding its use. Here are some guidelines to ensure your participation in the study of (& provident use of) literature:

1. Come to class intent on learning; do all the readings; participate in discussions.

2. Read carefully: engage the material, question definitions & assumptions, attend to details, develop an interpretation that addresses & explains the significance of the details, question your interpretation.

3. If you don't understand something, ask--then listen, think, respond, think, write, write in order to think, think some more, write some more, ask some more questions, think some more. . . .

4. In writing assigned essays, attempt both to develop your thinking further & to convey your argument effectively. Write as many drafts as you can, read your work critically, & discuss it with others (tutors, peers, me.)