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Literature: The American Short Story
Course details
Course code
Q00019239Course date
Number of classes
5 sessionsTimetable
Tutor
Joseph WilliamsFee range
How you'll learn
Venue
Jubilee Hall Loddon (Loddon)George Lane
Loddon
NR14 6NB
Level of study
Entry Levels 1,2,3: If you have never studied this subject before and you’re not confident in your skills, Entry levels are a good starting point.
Level 1: Covers basic skills and knowledge needed for this subject
Level 2: Building on basic knowledge or experience. Similar to Grade 4/ C at GCSE or O level in England or Standards in Scotland.
Level 3: Learn about the topic in-depth and have a broad range of skills. Independent working Equivalent to an A level in England or Higher in Scotland.
Beginners: A perfect introduction if you have no experience and skills in this subject.
Improvers: The next step if you have basic skills or knowledge but want to progress them further.
Advanced: Build on the solid experience and skills you have in this subject, applying your skills and knowledge in a more complex way.
Course overview
Course description
The post-war period saw a major change in the significance of the short story in the USA and Canada. Whereas previously the short story had been the form for more sensational or dramatic pieces (for example crime or ghost stories) the decades after the second world war see a shift to more serious explorations of character and psychology, beginning with Ernest Hemingway and then later Raymond Carver, John Updike and Mavis Gallant.
Each week we will look closely at two stories, one by each of the following authors:
Ernest Hemingway and Raymond Carver
John Updike and Mavis Gallant
Elizabeth Strout and Brandon Taylor
Christmas stories by Langston Hughes and Grace Paley
Christmas stories by Shirley Jackson and Truman Capote
Looking at these stories, we will ask question, including (among others): how does the writer use narration to explore memory and character? What does the writer describe in detail, and what do they leave out (and why)? How does the writer use imagery, in particular figurative language such as simile and metaphor?
Handouts of each of the stories will be provided in advance of each class.
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What financial support is available?
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We don't want anything to stand in your way when it comes to bringing Adult learning within reach so if you need anything to support you to achieve your goals then speak to one of our education experts during your enrolment journey. Most of our courses are government funded but if you don't qualify or need alternative financial help to access them then let us know.
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What other support is available?
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All of our digital content, teaching and learning activities and assessments are designed to be accessible so if you need any additional support you can discuss this with the education experts during your enrolment journey and we will do all we can to make sure you have optimal access.
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