Poetry of the spirit

How does poetry depict spiritual challenges and realities? We shall read and discuss poems from numerous traditions and civilisations across three millennia, including Homer, Lao Tzu, the Indian scriptures, Rumi, Ibn Gabirol, Hopkins and Dickinson.

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Key course information

Dates
18/04/12 - 20/06/12

Day(s)
Wed

Duration
10 weeks

Time
14:00 - 16:00

Fees
Full fee: £100
Senior fee: £56
Concession: £27

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HLT18

Availability
Available
(status updated every 15 mins)

This course has started

It may still be possible to enrol on this course - please call 020 7831 7831 to discuss. Please note that you will have missed some course content and it may not be possible for the tutor to fully cover missed content with you. Please be advised that the published course fees will apply.

Course outline

What is the course about?

A wide ranging survey of the ways in which poets have explored and expressed the nature and impact of spiritual aspiration. We shall consider and compare the thought and style of poets from pre-history to the present day, and reflect on their significance for us.

What topics will we cover?

We shall visit numerous traditions - including those of China, India and the Abrahamic religions - looking at poems, scriptural and otherwise, in English and in translation. We will focus on the poets’ evocation of the difficulties, rewards and insights of spiritual work, and how their poetry is formed by (and helps to form ideas and feelings about) the traditions and faiths that they represent.

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

Demonstrate understanding of many ways in which spiritual experience and understanding can be evoked in poetry.
Show you appreciate how poets reflect and interpret the traditions and faiths that have helped to form them.
Discuss how style and technique can contribute to the meaning and impact of poetry.
Identify ways in which a poet’s life and circumstances can influence their work.

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

You will need an enthusiasm for reading and discussing a range of texts in large and small groups. You will be willing and able to do some reading and preparation outside the class. You will be interested in listening to, and learning from, the responses of other students to the work discussed. You will have a commitment to developing your analytical skills.

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

Teacher explanation; group discussion. As indicated above, you will need to read and reflect on the poems scheduled for each class in advance.

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.

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.