ENG-340 Readings in Decadent Literature
This course will explore the concept of decadence as a transitional literary movement bridging the 19th and 20th centuries beginning with the proto-decadent writings of E.A. Poe and proceeding to foundational texts such as Baudelaires The Flowers of Evil and Wildes Dorian Gray. Later manifestations of decadence in 20th century England, Europe and America will also be explored (Cavafy, H.D., Waugh, Isherwood, Kushner) with a view to understanding the ongoing relevance of decadence and the current debate over cultural decline. Readings will include poetic, narrative and dramatic works as well as seminal texts and manifestos defining the movement. Film adaptations will also be viewed.
Prerequisite
Student has completed any of the following course(s) WRI 102 - First-Year Writing II, WRI H103 - Honors Advanced First-Year Writing