Description
Detailed study of the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, with particular emphasis on The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, The Simarillion, and Tolkien's critical writings. Examination of genre considerations, including the origins of the world-building model of contemporary fantasy fiction and comparison of written and cinematic versions. Biographical, historical, formalist, feminist, ecocritical, and other approaches will also be explored, and students will practice teaching Tolkien at the secondary or post-secondary levels. Offered Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. Recommended: An undergraduate Introduction to Literature or advanced literature course and a literary theory course (such as ENG 450W / ENG 550) or permission of Program Chair.