ENG 417 - The Epic

Semester Hours: 4

This course will trace the evolution of monster symbolism in classic and modern epics, in the forms of poetry and prose, as well as their film or TV adaptations. Students will analyze epics for their narrative techniques, historical and cultural significance, themes, and symbols through the lens of multiple critical theories. Course texts will include Homer’s The Odyssey, Beowulf, Haley’s Roots, a selection of epic excerpts, film adaptions of the epics studied, as well as scholarly critique of the epics. Students will be required to write a literary analysis paper, take quizzes on course content, perform an oral presentation, and create their own epic in the style of Haley’s Roots. In preparation for the writing of their own epic, students will practice their use of craft elements and refine their implementation of story structure through creative writing prompts. Students must demonstrate the ability to write and speak analytically, creatively, and coherently, in ways appropriate to the discipline, and they must display the ability to revise and improve their writing in both form and content.