Cervantes and the invention of the modern novel
Foto: Gustave Doré, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
How did Don Quixote fit into the period when it was written? What type of literature made it possible, what were the historical events that marked its composition, what sort of society was prepared to read and enjoy it? And more to the point, how did they read it? We will look at how the Renaissance was transformed into the Baroque, how different types of literature (the picaresque, the chivalresque) flowed into the work, and how changes in way society worked and philosophy was done brought about the conditions for Cervantes’ epoch-changing book. We’ll also peek a little into the author’s own adventurous biography. And then, from the Quixote, we’ll look at how the modern novel evolves over time, and the repeated importance of Cervantes’ work at each stage of its development.
The overall document for a course is the course syllabus. The syllabus can be found in the menu on the right. In this description, we clarify how to complete the course in practice. The course description should provide good guidance, but is not comprehensive. Further clarifications in oral or written form are given by the teacher during the lessons. Do not hesitate to ask the teacher if questions would remain. To see which teachers teach the course, and for information about the schedule and examination, see further under "Schedule". Information about Literature Lists can be found under Course literature.
Teaching Format
Teaching takes place in English. You can read the texts translated into Swedish or in Spanish. You can read more about this course below. This course consists of lectures and seminars. You prepare for each lesson by reading relevant parts of the course literature. Course material, in the form of, for example, teacher presentations or reflection questions about the literature, is continuously posted on our learning platform. There is also information about the course implementation and clear reading instructions. During the classes, you are expected to participate actively and contribute to the discussion.
Assessment
The course is examined through a digital exam (in English, Swedish or Spanish). For general information about cheating and plagiarism, see also Stockholm University's rulebook on rules for examinations and guidelines for disciplinary matters at Stockholm University.
Examiner
Anthony Lappin
Juan Carlos Cruz Suárez
For general information about cheating and plagiarism, see also Stockholm University's rulebook on rules for examinations and guidelines for disciplinary matters at Stockholm University.
