The epic in a number of cultures, with emphasis on its nature, structure, and social function. Major themes to be discussed will include the relationships between nature and culture, human and divine being, the hero and the world at large, freedom and destiny, self and other, desire and social order. Readings will be drawn cross-culturally from such works as Gilgamesh, the Iliad and Odyssey, the Aeneid, the Mahabharata, Beowulf, and other poems.

No prerequisite.

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