Fall 2019: Expressing the Ineffable in China and Hebrew Poetry
This course will explore how the Chinese and Hebrew-language literary traditions (broadly defined) delineate the realm of the ineffable, and how cultural notions of the inexpressible shape the writing and reading of poems, songs, and a selection of prose pieces, from the uses of figurative language and prosody to genre and canon formation. Over this course of study, students will not only refine their sensitivity to the power of literary modes of indirection, but will also hone their skills in close reading, analytical writing, and oral expression. All readings will be in English. Prerequisites: None.