Assignments

Assigned Readings

This course invites you into some of the most complex and compelling texts in the literary tradition. The reading load is demanding, and that’s intentional. Expect to reread, reflect, and wrestle with ideas. These works are layered, strange, and sometimes challenging, but they reward deep attention. You’ll need to read carefully and completely to engage meaningfully in the rest of the course.

Discussion Forums (15% of final grade)

Our discussions will be the heart of the course. Most weeks, you’ll participate in a forum where we grapple with big ideas, close-read important passages, or reflect on literary patterns. These conversations help us think together and stretch each other’s perspectives. I’ll ask you to follow posted instructions and practice respectful, engaged dialogue. To keep things fair and timely, posts can’t be submitted early or late, but I will drop your lowest score at the end of the term.

Video Lessons and  Text Materials

You’ll encounter a variety of lecture formats—videos, audio files, slideshows, interactive web pages, and plain text guides. These materials are designed to help you explore our big questions from multiple angles. Part of your work in this class is learning how to move confidently between different media. That flexibility is a skill, one that will serve you beyond this course.

Commonplace Journal (20% of final grade)

This journal is your space to respond creatively and critically to the texts we’re reading. Over the semester, you’ll complete five journal entries (10%) and a final epilogue (10%) reflecting on your growth and insights. The journal lets you take ownership of what stands out to you, whether that’s a haunting image, a powerful line, or a surprising idea. More details and guiding instructions are posted on WTClass. Because these are time-sensitive reflections, late entries aren’t accepted.

Practice Quizzes (10% of final grade)

These quizzes help you get ready for the bigger assessments in the course. They give you a chance to try things out, test your knowledge, and get feedback before the stakes are higher. Most can be taken more than once, and I’ll drop your lowest score at the end of the term. 

Exams (2 exams totaling 30% of final grade)

Each exam challenges you to apply what you’ve learned. You might be asked to write essays, identify key passages, or analyze literary features. These assessments are designed to push your thinking and show how your ideas are evolving. Because we’re building momentum toward these moments, make-up exams are only available in rare, documented emergencies.

Final Exam (15% of final grade)

The final is comprehensive and follows the same format as previous exams. It’s your chance to draw connections, demonstrate insight, and reflect on the ideas and texts we’ve explored together.