English 251-002
Fantasy in Literature: Tolkien, Lewis, and Rowling
Instr: Barth Walczak, Laurie
Office: CRT 518; 229-5441
e-mail: laurieb3@uwm.edu
Office hours: TBA
Course Information: MW; 9:30-10:45am; LAP 257
Course Description
In this course we will explore the fantastical worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and J.K. Rowling. Utilizing literary theories and criticisms such as cultural studies, response theory, new historicism, postcolonialism, and deconstruction, we will investigate individual elements, common themes, existing trends, and new contexts of these authors' works. We will not only examine ideologies, interpretations, and authorities in these series, but we will also talk about the phenomenon of popularity that surrounds Middle Earth, Narnia, and Hogwarts and identify the relevance and implications of their place in the fantasy literature landscape. In addition, we will also discuss the foundational position of these series in contemporary fantasy literature and compare and contrast these authors' works with new fantasy worlds, such as Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy and Christopher Paolini's Inheritance trilogy. Finally, we will read these texts for enjoyment and pleasure, recapturing fantasy as entertaining, escapist literature.
