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Modern Masterpieces of World Literature

David Damrosch and Martin Puchner

Based on the second half of the Masterpieces of World Literature edX MOOC, this short literature course examines how writers reach beyond national and linguistic boundaries as worldly readers and travelers, and how their modern fictions rise to the status of world literature.

These masterpieces of modern world literature take part in a tradition of weaving small stories into ambitious projects—one that reaches back to medieval tales and extends forward to contemporary novels. Throughout the course, you will learn how these writers use their fictions to engage directly with the political and social concerns of their present and of a globalized modernity, relating experiences of exploration, migration, international conflict, and cultural exchange.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

The recent history of world literature
How literary works are transformed by cultural transmission

How to critically analyze literary works
Historical and political context in china, argentina, turkey, and more

The recent history of world literature
How literary works are transformed by cultural transmission
How to critically analyze literary works
Historical and political context in china, argentina, turkey, and more

Syllabus

Section 1: Introduction: What is World Literature? (Goethe)Section 2: West-Eastern Conversations ( The 1001 Nights )Section 3: Enlightenment in the Colonies (Candide)Section 4: China and Its Neighbors (Lu Xun and Eileen Chang)Section 5: Inventing Latin America (Jorge Luis Borges, Ficciones )Section 6: From Empire to Globe (Wole Soyinka, Death and the King's Horseman )Section 7: East-West Encounters (Salman Rushdie, East, West ; Jhumpa Lahiri, The Interpreter of Maladies ) Section 8: Istanbul in – or as – the World (Orhan Pamuk, My Name Is Red )

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Explores the recent history of World Literature, making the course relevant to those interested in contemporary literature

Analyzes literary works critically, which is a skill in high demand by employers in publishing, academia, and writing

Provides historical and political context for works from China, Argentina, Turkey, and other regions, which may be of interest to students of history

Taught by David Damrosch and Martin Puchner, who are renowned scholars in the field of literature

Includes works by diverse authors from different cultures, exposing learners to a variety of perspectives

Requires no prior knowledge of literature, making it suitable for beginners

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Career center

Learners who complete Modern Masterpieces of World Literature will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

English Professor

English Professors teach and research literature, language, and writing at colleges and universities. This course would be highly relevant for aspiring English Professors as it provides a comprehensive understanding of modern world literature, including its historical, cultural, and political contexts. The course also develops critical analysis and interpretation skills, which are essential for success in academia.

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Literary Agent

Literary Agents represent authors in negotiations with publishers, ensuring that their work is published and promoted effectively. This course would be particularly useful for aspiring Literary Agents as it provides a deep understanding of the history, context, and analysis of literary works, enabling them to better assess the literary merit and marketability of manuscripts. Familiarity with different cultural and historical perspectives will also be crucial for navigating the global literary landscape.

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Writer

Writers create original written content, including books, articles, poems, and scripts. This course would be beneficial for aspiring Writers as it provides a deep understanding of literary techniques, styles, and genres. Familiarity with world literature can inspire creativity, broaden perspectives, and enhance storytelling abilities.

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Librarian

Librarians organize and manage library collections, assist patrons with research, and promote literacy within the community. This course would be beneficial for aspiring Librarians as it provides a broad knowledge of world literature, enabling them to effectively recommend books and assist patrons with literary research. Additionally, the course's focus on cultural transmission and historical context will help Librarians understand the diverse perspectives and experiences represented in literature.

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Translator

Translators convert written or spoken text from one language to another, ensuring accurate and culturally appropriate communication. This course would be beneficial for aspiring Translators as it provides a deep understanding of different cultural perspectives and literary styles. Familiarity with the historical and political contexts of world literature will also be crucial for translating works that reflect complex cultural and historical realities.

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Editor

Editors oversee the development, production, and distribution of written content, including books, magazines, and articles. This course would be helpful for aspiring Editors as it develops critical reading, writing, and analytical skills. Understanding the nuances of world literature, including its cultural and historical contexts, will enable Editors to effectively evaluate and edit literary works.

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Archivist

Archivists preserve, organize, and provide access to historical documents and artifacts. This course would be helpful for aspiring Archivists as it develops an understanding of the historical and cultural significance of literature. Familiarity with different literary genres and movements can assist Archivists in identifying, preserving, and interpreting valuable literary works for future generations.

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Museum curator

Museum Curators oversee the preservation, display, and interpretation of cultural artifacts and collections. This course would be beneficial for aspiring Museum Curators as it provides a deep understanding of cultural heritage and the role of literature in shaping collective memory. Familiarity with different literary traditions and perspectives will enable Curators to develop engaging and inclusive exhibitions that resonate with diverse audiences.

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Cultural Anthropologist

Cultural Anthropologists study the cultural practices and beliefs of different societies, both past and present. This course would be helpful for aspiring Cultural Anthropologists as it provides insights into the cultural contexts and influences that shape literary works. Understanding how literature reflects and influences cultural values and beliefs is crucial for conducting anthropological research.

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International Relations Specialist

International Relations Specialists analyze and manage international political, economic, and social issues. This course would be beneficial for aspiring International Relations Specialists as it provides a global perspective on literature and culture. Understanding how literature reflects and influences international relations can provide valuable insights for navigating complex diplomatic and intercultural situations.

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Historian

Historians research, analyze, and interpret past events to understand their impact on the present. This course would be beneficial for aspiring Historians as it provides a historical perspective on the development of world literature. Understanding the political, social, and cultural forces that have influenced literary works is essential for conducting historical research and analysis.

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Foreign Service Officer

Foreign Service Officers represent their country's interests abroad, promoting diplomacy and fostering international cooperation. This course would be helpful for aspiring Foreign Service Officers as it provides insights into different cultures and worldviews. Understanding how literature shapes cultural identities and perspectives can facilitate effective communication and build bridges across borders.

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Public Relations Specialist

Public Relations Specialists manage the public image and reputation of organizations, often through media relations and strategic communication. This course would be helpful for aspiring Public Relations Specialists as it develops strong communication and storytelling skills. Understanding the cultural and historical contexts of world literature can provide valuable insights for crafting effective messages that resonate with diverse audiences.

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Nonprofit Program Manager

Nonprofit Program Managers plan, implement, and evaluate programs that address social and environmental issues. This course would be beneficial for aspiring Nonprofit Program Managers as it provides a global perspective on social justice, human rights, and cultural diversity. Understanding how literature reflects and influences these issues can inform the development of effective programs that promote positive social change.

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Journalist

Journalists research, write, and report on current events for newspapers, magazines, and other media outlets. This course would be helpful for aspiring Journalists as it develops critical thinking and analytical skills, which are essential for evaluating and interpreting complex information. Understanding the cultural and historical contexts of world literature can also provide valuable insights for reporting on global issues.

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Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Modern Masterpieces of World Literature.

What Is World Literature?