Revised 05/2008

ENG 237 - Introduction of Poetry (3 CR.)

Course Description

Examines selected poetry, emphasizing the history of the genre and the elements that constitute effective poetry. Involves critical reading and writing. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

Introduces students to poetry as a literary genre. Emphasizes qualities that characterize poetry, develops students’ understanding of the nature and techniques of poetry, and increases students’ ability to read poetry analytically. 

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Course Prerequisites/Co-requisites Students must have successfully completed ENG 112 or ENG 125 or equivalent or division approval.

Course Objectives

GOAL ONE: CRITICAL READING SKILLS

Students will be taught the understandings and skills necessary to read poems perceptively. By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  • identify and analyze the elements of poems which contribute to their effectiveness,
  • identify and analyze the characteristics of poems related to traditional forms and the historical development of the genre, and demonstrate an understanding of literal and figurative uses of language in poems.

GOAL TWO: INTERPRETIVE SKILLS

Students will be taught the skills necessary to interpret poems. By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  • apply a number of basic critical approaches to the same poem, and
  • demonstrate a familiarity with the themes and techniques of selected poets.

GOAL THREE: WRITING SKILLS

Students will continue to improve their writing skills. By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  • analyze poems persuasively focusing on matters of form and content (effect),
  • use textual evidence in written interpretations, and engage in all phases of the writing process: prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing.

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Interpretive methods, critical approaches
  • Poetic diction: literal and figurative language
  • Rhythm and sound
  • Forms: traditional and organic
  • Written analysis
  • Career and development of selected poets
  • Emotion in poetry