A Second Shakespeare?
Second Session, Summer 2003
Students will investigate the literary, philosophical, and scientific (or lack
thereof) origins of the Discworld series and other of Terry Pratchett’s works.
We will
investigate why Terry Pratchett is the most popular writer in English since
Shakespeare though we will only mention the Bard (whoever she really was) in
this context
so he won’t disrupt the exploration of our modern writer’s works.
We will explore the thematic sources, characterization, plot, and language
use that come together to produce the charm of Pratchett’s literature. We will
not resort
to magic to orient ourselves in the Discworld cosmography but work diligently
to seek the genius that makes these works more than mere fantasy adventure.
Be prepared to: encounter speculations on history, philosophy, moral integrity, religious belief and intolerance, women’s place in society, and “a policeman’s lot”.
We will allow magic to burnish our understanding of why this writer is so fun to read even while he excoriates our human foibles.
We will read:
Various web sites containing specially assembled references to other literature within the Pratchett oeuvre: http://www.co.uk.lspace.org
You will do:
Research on the historical, philosophical, ethical, religious, social and cultural references contained within the Pratchett stories.
Write one short paper on your understanding of literature and literariness
A longer paper on a Pratchett novel of your choice, (http://www.co.uk.lspace.org/books/apf/index.html), disclosing the results of your research.
Credit Equivalencies In :
History, Literature, Philosophy, Cultural Anthropology, and Research Methodology
History, Literature, Philosophy, Cultural Anthropology, and Research