Tragedies are often about remarkable discoveries and recognitions. This course itself is a remarkable discovery, an exciting (and sometimes terrifying) journey through the tragic literary genre in Western literature. Together, we will explore the key motifs and themes in classic tragic literature spanning the period from the ancient world up to modern times. In this class, we will learn how to define a tragedy, learn how to identify key works of literature as tragedy, and study the main themes present in tragic works of literature. Along the way we will see how gospel narratives of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration can be seen in tragedies ranging from Shakespeare’s King Lear to Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea. This is no ordinary class in that we will read about battles and blindings, courageous actions and cowardly betrayals. All of this will be studied with a view to seeing how the gospel of Jesus Christ has transformed and continues to transform literature, society, and culture.
- Teacher: Josh Bruce