161-029 Philosophy and Literature

At least one first-year single-semester philosophy or first-year European studies subject, or permission from the Head of School or subject coordinator.

This subject is an exploration of some of the philosophical problems concerning the self raised by autobiographical writing. The links between literary and philosophical texts will be examined, as well as themes like narrative unity and human identity; selfhood and temporality; and the possibility of self-knowledge. On completion of the subject, students should have gained insight into the problems of writing about oneself, and skills in extracting philosophical implications from literary texts.

• develop skills in reading texts so as to be able to extract philosophical themes and questions from them;

• be able to bring to bear the philosophical understanding developed in this subject on their other studies, inside and outside philosophy;

• have become able to express their ideas more clearly.

A written assignment of 2000 words 50% (due mid-semester), a 2-hour closed-book written examination 47% (held at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 3%.

A subject reader will be available.