Course Descriptions

2007-08 Academic Bulletin

• French (FRE)
• German (GER)
• Italian (ITA)
• Portuguese (POR)
• Spanish (SPA)
• Others (Arabic, Chinese, Hebrew, Japanese)

MLL300 Philosophy and Literature: Descartes to Diderot
3 credits Fall Semester

This seminar will examine European literature and philosophy of early modern/enlightenment period (1630-1773). Topic: theological-philosophical works (by Locke, Spinoza and Leibniz) and literary works (by Sterne, Diderot and Voltaire) that seriously, yet playfully, engage these philosophies. Descartes’s works will also be regarded as philosophy and as literature. One goal is to discuss the significance of the word ’and’ in the phrase ’literature and philosophy.’ Readings, discussions, and writings
in English.

MLL321 Topics in Literary and Cultural Studies
3 credits Fall Semester

Comparative topics in the study of literature and culture. Specific topics vary;
may be repeated for credit it topics differ. Taught in English. This course will
not count towards the 18 credits required for the major in French or Spanish, nor
for the 9 credits towards the minors offered in the deparment as they are presently
defined. Prerequisite: Three credits in literature.

MLL503 Introduction to Foreign Language Teaching: Theory and Practice
3 credits Spring Semester

Current trends in foreign language teaching with emphasis on introductory language
courses. Topics include: linguistic and psychological foundations, teaching methodologies,
language skills development. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in MLL or permission
of the Director of Graduate Studies.

MLL505 Introduction to Literary Theory
3 credits Fall Semester

An introduction to the major concepts, issues, and debates that inform contemporary
literary criticism. Prerequisite: One literature course on the 500-level and permission
of the instructor.

MLL521 Special Topics in Literatures
3 credits Offered By Announcement Only

May be repeated for credit, if topics are different. Prerequisite: Two literature
courses on the 300 level and permission of instructor and Director of Graduate
Studies.

MLL597 Readings for the Ph.D. Examinations
1- 3 credits Offered By Announcement Only

For Ph.D. students who are preparing for exams. Prerequisite: Permission of Director
of Graduate Studies.

MLL599 Internship
1 credit Offered By Announcement Only

Students work in a community or business setting on issues related to language,culture,
and/or teaching.