What This Document Is
This document outlines the core components of a graduate-level course focused on the works of Geoffrey Chaucer, a pivotal figure in English literature. It serves as a comprehensive syllabus for ENGL 620 at Western Carolina University, detailing the course’s objectives, assessment strategies, and important university policies. The course delves into Chaucer’s major poetic works, placing them within their historical and cultural context, with a significant focus on navigating the original Middle English texts.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is essential for anyone enrolled in, or considering enrolling in, this specific Chaucer course. It provides a clear roadmap for success, outlining expectations for student performance and the skills developed throughout the semester. Prospective students can use this to gauge the course’s rigor and determine if it aligns with their academic goals. Current students will find it invaluable for understanding assignment requirements, grading criteria, and available support services. It’s particularly useful for those seeking to deepen their understanding of medieval literature and prepare for advanced scholarship.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This document is a syllabus; it does *not* contain the actual course readings, detailed lecture notes, or specific interpretations of Chaucer’s works. It outlines the *structure* of learning, but doesn’t deliver the learning itself. It also doesn’t provide pre-written analyses or solutions to potential research topics. Students will need to actively engage with the primary texts and course materials to succeed.
What This Document Provides
* A detailed overview of the course’s goals and learning objectives.
* A breakdown of assessment components and their respective weights.
* Information regarding assignment types, including short responses, presentations, and a substantial research essay.
* A description of the grading scale and assessment criteria.
* Important university policies regarding accommodations for students with disabilities and academic honesty.
* Guidance on the expected level of engagement and preparation for a graduate-level course.