1. Literary Theory OpenCourseWare: MIT's Free Bachelor Level Course on Literary Theory
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Literary Theory OpenCourseWare: MIT's Free Bachelor Level Course on Literary Theory

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Published Feb 07, 2009

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Learn the fundamentals of literary analysis in MIT's course on literary theory. This free online OpenCourseWare introduces students to the major strategies and paradigms of literary theory that were developed during the 20th century. 'Introduction to Literary Theory' is taught at the undergraduate level and is well suited to students studying English, Comparative Literature or Philosophy.

Introduction to Literary Theory: Course Specifics

Degree Level Free Audio Video Downloads
Undergraduate Yes No No Yes

Lectures/Notes Study Materials Tests/Quizzes
Yes Yes Yes

Introduction to Literary Theory: Course Description

Modern literary theory can act as a guide to understanding how people read, interpret and engage with literature and film. In MIT's 'Introduction to Literary Theory' OpenCourseWare, students are exposed to major 20th century critical theories that have informed modern literary analysis. Students have the opportunity to read and analyze the writings of highly influential theorists such as Keats, Derrida and Freud. Students will be introduced to major theoretical paradigms, including structuralism, post-structuralism, Marxism, post-colonialism and modern sociology. Works featured in the course include Charlie Chaplin's City Lights and Edgar Allan Poe's The Purloined Letter. This free online course is taught by MIT Professor Shankar Raman through the Department of Literature.

Lecture notes, a recommended reading list, written assignments and a final written exam are all available for download on the course website. To learn more, or to download course materials, visit the literary theory course page.

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