UCL - Dutch literature: in-depth study of an author

[GERM2836]

[15h] 5 credits

This course is taught in the 1st semester.

Teacher(s): Matthieu Sergier

Language: NL

Level: Second

Aims
Main themes
Content and teaching methods
Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Aims

The aim of the course is to acquire a deeper insight into the works of an author that has marked Dutch literature (e.g.: Hugo Claus, Hella S. Haasse, Guido Gezelle, Hendrik Marsman). The students will find out how these works are situated in a historical, sociological and cultural context and how they are related to other European literatures and artistic fields.

This approach is a continuation of the courses on history of literature and civilisation of the bachelor programme, and makes use of previously acquired insights into literary theory. It aims to increase the students' literary knowledge and to develop a critical attitude towards the interpretation of literary texts in their adequate context. This approach also aims to teach the students how to write a critical essay in the studied field.

Main themes

In-depth analysis of an author that has marked Dutch literature. In-depth reading of the secondary literature about the author. Analysis of the author's literary texts.

Content and teaching methods

Contents
The Flemish writer Paul de Wispelaere (1928) is considered one of the finest Dutch-speaking novelists of the second half of the twentieth century. He is the author of essays and prose for which he received the most prestigious literary prizes (like the 'Prijs der Nederlandse Letteren, in 1998) and his creative work has deeply influenced the Flemish experimental literary movement.

This seminar will focus on the particular status of Paul de Wispelare's diary in his works and raise two interrelated questions. First, to what degree can the writer's diary be compared with the other genres produced and theorised by Paul de Wispelaere? The second question is related to the writer's journal as a genre that could be used by the author as a means of self-representation through an autofictional game. We will focus on the strategic textual tools worked out by Paul de Wispelaere to influence, and possibly modify, his notoriety in the literary field by the means of the edition of his journal.

Method :
Lectures. Audio-visual materials and interactive activities will be used. The students are expected to do some preparatory reading and research to take part in the discussion. If possible, the course will be organised as a seminar.

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Evaluation: Continuous assessment. Active participation in the course or seminar (oral presentation, discussions and workshops) is required. Final evaluation based on an oral exam (the students are expected to write an essay based on the course).

Teaching material: texts, handouts, documents on i-campus.