Honors 12

The English language, and consequently its literature, is old, its traditions rich and varied. This course is an opportunity to explore some of the different authors and movements that mark important developments in that tradition, and more importantly, which maintain a critical relevance to readers today. Even though these poems, plays, and novels are old—or perhaps because they are old—they will challenge you to think critically about human nature, modern society, and yourself. Be curious and ask “why?” about anything we read here. The biggest measure of your success upon graduation is to leave with more questions than you’ve brought.

The keys to success in this honors course are not a secret: you should be inquisitive about new authors and new ideas, receptive to intensive literary analysis, and willing to write frequently and thoughtfully. And most importantly of all, you should foster a personal love of reading, even (or especially) if this is something you’ve lost somewhere along the way.