LITR 180 - Rebels and Outsiders in Literature | GEKH

In-depth, multi-genre study of literature that goes against the grain of societal and/or literary conventions; the focus is on themes or literary movements that represent the position of outsiders or rebels. Texts will be examined in their historical, cultural, and critical contexts. Specific topics vary by instructor (see subtitles in the schedule).

Credit 3 hrs May not be repeated for additional credit
Grade Mode Normal (A-F)

This course has been developed in response to student interest in examining literature that goes against the grain of societal and/or literary conventions. Course topics will vary by instructor, according to themes or literary movements that reflect the course emphasis and may include topics like students in Beat Literature, Anti-War literature, and literature of Social Protests, among others. The course will include texts from a range of literary genres. Texts chosen will be examined in their historical, cultural, philosophical, and critical contexts, for the ways in which they promote greater understanding of the literature of protests and its adversarial or outsider relationship to the broader literary canon, which such works both react against and re=define. Students will acquire literary terms and apply them in analysis of literary texts; they will investigate issues in and approaches to literary analysis, and they will develop the skills of close reading and writing about literature. While investigating social, cultural, and aesthetic controversies, they will practice interpretive and writing skills. Through their studies, students will gain an appreciation for the ways in which literature is both affected by and promotes social and ideological change.
Updates Gen Edu Approval 5/2013, effective Winter 2014; New Course 10/2012, effective Winter 2013

Winter 2025 Course Sections

Summer 2025 Course Sections

Fall 2025 Course Sections