This course will introduce a student to literary theory and criticism, central components of contemporary studies in English and world literature.  You will gain knowledge of the various premises, methods, utility, and limitations available to him/her as a critical reader of literature. The course explores classical Greek origins of issues concerning the nature of literature and criticism, and examines major twentieth-century theories. You apply the theoretical premises and techniques to selected literary texts so as to appreciate the nature of literature and specific literary texts.