European Literature in Translation: Early Literary Giants - we are no longer taking enrolments for this course.

Start Date

30 January, 2025

There will be 10 weekly meetings on Thursday,12 - 2pm, starting from 30 January. 

Overview

This course is a continuation of the popular European Literature in Translation course series, and this online opportunity will look at older European texts and demonstrate the forces that shaped early literature on the continent.

The set texts will be Boccaccio’s Decameron, Christine de Pizan's The Book of the City of Ladies, Don Quixote and Voltaire’s Candide. These texts are each a study of the power of human imagination and offer an excellent entry point into a comprehensive range of literary topics.

This short course enables participants at all levels of experience to enhance their understanding of European literary texts and build the skills and confidence to approach and understand literary texts in translation from a wide range of historical periods. Expect lively discussion in a relaxed online environment.

All texts will be in English, and no knowledge of an additional language is required. No prior knowledge is needed, although participants are encouraged to read the set texts before the relevant session.

Syllabus

Week 1: Introduction to the course: Text and Context

Week 2: Boccaccio, The Decameron (Introduction) analysis and discussion

Week 3: Boccaccio, The Decameron analysis and discussion

Week 4: Christine de Pizan, The Book of the City of Ladies analysis and discussion

Week 5 Miguel de Cervantes, Don Quixote analysis and discussion

Week 6: Miguel de Cervantes, Don Quixote analysis and discussion

Week 7: Miguel de Cervantes, Don Quixote analysis and discussion

Week 8: Voltaire, Candide analysis and discussion

Week 9: Voltaire, Candide analysis and discussion

Week 10: Summary and reflection on all four texts

Please note that the ‘last date available to book’ date is only a guide. We reserve the right to close bookings earlier if courses are over- or under-subscribed. In order to avoid disappointment, please be sure enrol as soon as possible. Registrations will not be processed until the following day if received after 3pm. 

Course Lecturer: Dr Alexandra Claridge

Alexandra Claridge is a tutor, lecturer and researcher who has taught for the University of Liverpool and for Birkbeck, University of London. Her research specialism is in medieval and Early Modern literature.

Courses fees: Full fee £155/Concession £80.

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