LIT 400 - Introduction to Literary Theory

This course offers an introduction to the major topics in twentieth- and twenty-first-century literary theory and criticism. We consider the unique challenges literature presents as an object of inquiry and ask why the interpretive methods developed in literary studies have become central to the analysis of language, culture, and representation. Areas of focus include Structuralism, Poststructuralism, Psychoanalysis, Marxism, New Historicism, Postcolonial Theory, Critical Race and Ethnic Studies, Feminism, and Queer and Trans Studies. The course is intended for literature majors, but non-majors with adequate preparation may be admitted at the discretion of the instructor. LIT courses conducted in English.

Unit(s): 1
Group Distribution Requirement(s): Distribution Group I
Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or at least two literature courses
Instructional Method: Conference
Grading Mode: Letter grading (A-F)
Cross-listing(s): ENG 400
Group Distribution Learning Outcome(s):

Analyze and interpret texts, whether literary or philosophical, in English or a foreign language, or works of the visual or performing arts.
Evaluate arguments made in or about texts (whether literary or philosophical, in English or a foreign language, or works of the visual or performing arts).