WiSe 13/14: S-Medieval English Literatures II: Robert Henryson: Poet and Schoolmaster
Regina Scheibe
Comments
Robert Henryson is one of the great medieval Scottish poets. His name is primarily associated with the delightful fable collection he wrote, which is full of sharp comments upon human foibles and medieval Scottish society, without lacking the compassion for those experiencing the tight grip of misfortune. Apart from his fables and minor works, we will also read his moving romances Orpheus and Eurydice and the Testament of Cresseid, the latter being a compelling sequel to Geoffrey Chaucer's Troilus and Criseyde. His stunning talent for realistic detail and for the vivid description of the tragic and humorous aspects of human existence cannot but draw the listener or reader into his poetical narratives, always reminding him of the frailty of human life.
His works are available as a TEAMS edition (www.lib.rochester.edu/camelot/teams.htm). References to hard copies and a select bibliography will be provided in the first session.
Language of instruction: English. Required language level: C1-C2.
Assessment: Each week poems will be earmarked for study at home and discussion in class. The final mark will be based on participation in class, a brief presentation and a 2000-word final essay.
close16 Class schedule
Regular appointments