Jane Austen is one of England's most beloved authors. But many of us haven't read much beyond Pride and Prejudice. This deep reading interim will allow us to explore three of Austen's less well-known novels, Mansfield Park, Emma, and Persuasion, and then renew our knowledge of Pride and Prejudice. We will also view two films, Clueless and a more traditional version of Emma, and discuss ways in which Austen seems infinitely adaptable to the screen and to other genres.
Students will gain familiarity with the challenges and rewards of intensive reading through class discussion and daily writing. Students will keep a reading journal reflecting on both the novels and their experiences of reading, and will design and execute a final project that reflects some aspect of Victorian culture drawn from the readings. The goals of this course are to develop a greater appreciation for one of the most important cultural figures of the 19th century and to enhance our abilities to read deeply and at length, skills that often prove elusive in today’s world.
- Hidden from students
- Teacher: Anne Rodrick