Metaphysical Poets: something understood

Explore and discuss how Donne, Herbert, Vaughan evoked (and struggled with) questions of faith. Encountering their depiction of earthly realities and transcendent possibilities, we shall consider the practical contemporary significance of their thought and art.

» Be the first to write a review.

» View full course outline

Key course information

Date
05/05/12

Day(s)
Sat

Duration
1 week

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £37
Senior fee: £23
Concession: £11

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

» View location

Course code
HLT47

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

» Find another course in Humanities » Search all courses

Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

The ‘Metaphysical’ poets of the early 17th Century – of whom John Donne, George Herbert and Henry Vaughan were leading representatives – sought to dramatise the conflicts (and potential harmony) arising from our experience of earthly constraints and desires in the context of divine aspirations. We shall read and discuss a selection of characteristic poems – often very radical in language and thought – and consider how they can contribute to our own understanding of the issues involved.

What topics will we cover?

We shall study a range of poems by these three authors, illustrating doubt, discord, acceptance and ecstasy. Close attention will be given to the features of each poet’s style and how they help to project the experiences and insights latent in each poem.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

Demonstrate understanding of how these three poets explore the challenges and rewards of spiritual aspiration.
Appreciate the depth, complexity and significance of the Metaphysicals’ thought and styles.
Identify how the poets’ lives and times influenced their work.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

No particular prior knowledge will be assumed, but you will need to feel enthusiastic about the prospect of reading and discussing ‘Metaphysical’ poetry. Learners will, ideally, need the following skills and attributes:
An enthusiasm for reading and discussing a range of texts in large and small groups.
An interest in, and ability to listen to, the responses of other students to the work discussed.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Teacher explanation; group discussion.

The Tutor
Peter Brennan is a poet, and was for many years Head of English at The Latymer School, Edmonton. He founded Visionary Company courses in 2005, and is Editor-in-Chief of Perdika Press.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No. You will be provided with photocopies of the poems to be studied. Please bring a pen and paper.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses. At any stage, you are welcome to speak to the tutor about the way the course is progressing.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.