ENGLISH 14SI: Harry Potter: The Meaning Behind the Magic (seminar) Winter Quarter, 2006-2007 T 7:00-8:50, Room: 360-361A | Student Initiated Course: In this course, we will analyze the Harry Potter series from a literary perspective. We will read all six of the published novels in the series and discuss them as a class. If the class is too big, we may have to split into groups and discuss them amongst our smaller groups. There is NO expectation that you have read any of the books previously.
During our discussion, we will focus on both the content and form of J.K. Rowling’s writing. We will examine the magical world that she has created and analyze the possible origins of some of her ideas. Each week, we will discuss a particular theme that is of importance to the series and look at its literary and cultural influences. Additionally, we will take a brief look at the impact that the series has had on both children’s and adults’ literature, as well as its impact on both British and American culture.
The primary goal of this course is to give the students a greater awareness of the most prolific literary series of our time. By the end of the course, students should have a solid understanding of the Harry Potter series and a sense of its global appeal, both to children and adults.
Enrollment is limited to 20 students, so please fill out the application at: http://www.stanford.edu/~aneumann/HPapp.pdf This course fulfills the following Major Requirements:
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