Document Type

Syllabus

Publication Date

Spring 2024

Course Description

Genre is a rather broad term: “a category of artistic composition characterized by similarities in form, style, or subject matter,” and a repetition of recognizable elements. We can use it to differentiate larger categories of the arts, such as painting, literature, film, music. We can use it to differentiate different forms within a particular art form, such as fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, playwriting, and screenwriting in the category of creative writing or literature. We can use it in regards to film or literature to categorize stories with different types of narrative elements, content or style, e.g., mystery, sci-fi, romance, coming-of-age, thriller, young adult, horror, or drama. In this class, we will focus our examination on two genres of dramatic writing: plays and screenplays. We will consider elements that go into the creation of both genres in various forms, examine their structures, and analyze them as literary texts. And we will also look at some forms and styles (also sometimes termed “genres”) born of artistic, aesthetic, philosophical, and/or socio-political movements that have influenced both plays and films.

Student Outcomes

By the end of the semester, students will be able to:

  1. Understand literary forms and genres, with each section of this course focusing on two of the following: fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, playwriting and screenwriting, identify the key elements of each genre, and understand how to use them effectively in their own writing.

  1. Analyze literary techniques and apply them in their own writing.

  1. Practice critical thinking and analytical skills by reading and analyzing a variety of literary texts, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of different writing styles and techniques, and applying this knowledge to their own writing.

  1. Prepare themselves for advanced creative writing seminars in individually chosen genres, with a strong understanding of the conventions and expectations of each genre.

  1. Engage with guest speakers, such as writers, editors, and publishers, who can provide insights into the field.

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