Welcome to English 201!

This course is an introduction to the study of fiction.  Students explore the  historical development of fiction as a literary form and learn about the elements of fiction in order to read, interpret, and react critically.  In addition, students analyze the interaction of these various elements to create a whole in a work of fiction.  Through written and oral discussion of short stories and a novel, students work to understand the relationship between author, fiction, and reader.  Since English 102 is a prerequisite for this course, students are expected to have acquired the skills necessary to write essays in response to literature and to actively participate in class discussions of the readings.

I assume you that you are able to write clear and effective essays about literature. In addition, the course will consist of oral and written discussion, inquiry, and lecture.  The occasional lectures will provide information about the historical development of fiction and background about specific authors and works.  However, the main focus will be on inquiry and discussion-- a responsibility that you share with the instructor.  The class depends on your involvement and your willingness to share your perceptions about what you read.  This means that you must be prepared for each class meeting by completing the assigned reading.

Course Objectives:  Students will

1.  demonstrate critical thinking skills through written and oral analysis of fiction,

2.  work cooperatively in small and large groups to analyze and discuss the fiction,

3.  write essays supporting a thesis and providing evidence from the fiction,

4.  analyze the interaction of the literary elements in a piece of fiction,

5.  read and use literary criticism to formulate ideas about the literature,

6.  explain trends in the historical development of fiction,

7.  identify distinguishing characteristics in fiction of various time periods.