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Advanced Literature

suggested for grades 10th-12th

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Pile Of Books

IMPORTANT NOTE: all classes require a firm understanding of
multi-page expository essays with MLA citation use. Experience with
persuasive essays is a plus but not required.

Intro to AMERICAN LITERATURE: We are surrounded by references to great literature, whether or not we recognize it. By interacting with these works, we not only better understand our world, but we build critical thinking skills and empathy for those around us. In Intro to American Literature, we will survey the greatest works of American fiction, providing special focus on literature that has shaped our cultural consciousness like The Scarlet Letter and The Great Gatsby
American Literature II: If you only have a few pages to share your voice, you make each word count. American history is filled with writers of remarkable talent, and countless have turned their pens to brilliant short fiction and essays. In this course, we’ll explore the great American poets, essayists, and short story writers. Students will be encouraged to read and respond critically—and have fun! Prerequisite: Intro to American Literature or equivalent experience. This course may be taken before or after American Literature III: The Novel & The Stage.
americaN literature iii: For centuries, writers have strived for their “great American novel.” In this course, we’ll delve into several of the country’s strongest works of long fiction, exploring novels and stage plays by Wharton, Cather, and other greats. Students will be encouraged to both read and respond critically (while having fun!). Prerequisite: Intro to American Literature or equivalent experience. This course may be taken after or before American Literature II: Short Fiction & Essays.
intro to british literatureBritish literature holds the history of the English language, traced from the rhythms of Anglo-Saxon storytelling to the vivid poets of World War I. In this course, we’ll see language and history unfold as we delve into one era of British literature per week. While the majority of literature assigned will be English, introducing students to the largely-English touchstone literature for this grade level, we’ll also explore Scottish, Welsh, and Irish texts.  
british literature IIThough great works of art, especially paintings in large cathedrals, are often the primary icons of the Renaissance, this movement also renewed many other aspects of European culture, including reading and literature. As the Renaissance Age began to fade, a thirst for knowledge and a search for new ideas was only just beginning. In this course, we will explore some of what came about during and in subsequent eras as we read works by several great British poets, essayists, and short story writers between the 1500s-1900s. PrerequisiteIntro to British Literature or equivalent experience. This course may be taken after or before British Literature III.
british literature iii: The novel and the stage flourished to success in Great Britain, Ireland, and Scotland. With literary greats such as Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and Charles Dickens, we don't have to look far to find an excellent British story or script. With so many incredible authors to consider, we will delve into several prominent works of British long fiction during this course, exploring novels and stage plays through reading and critical response. PrerequisiteIntro to British Literature or equivalent experience. This course may be taken after or before British Literature II.
intro to SHAKESPEARE: The rockstar of his day, he wrote sitcoms, tragedies, teen romances, and history serials. He invented words, challenged conventions, and turned the entertainment world upside down—that’s right, we are talking about William Shakespeare. Throughout this course, you will be introduced to Shakespeare’s stage and language, receive an overview of early modern England, and interact with three plays. Assignments will include formal literary analysis papers as well as pieces intentionally crafted to improve comprehension. No prior experience with Shakespeare is necessary.
faith & literature: Throughout the centuries, Christians have applied themselves to a wealth of creative outlets —the visual arts, music, and certainly, literary writing. In this course, students will explore some of the greatest faith-based works from Lewis to Hugo, exploring fiction, poetry, and hymns. Students will be encouraged to reflect on the works, exercise critical thinking, apply Biblical insight, and even respond creatively to their own comfort level.
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