I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Remember, the ultimate goal of this course is to create a thematic tapestry reflecting the human condition of the Western world since the Industrial Revolution. Keep that in mind as we read the fiction of the course and consider how the fiction may reflect the philosophical principles explored throughout the course. Ultimately, your PBA amounts to a literary analysis through an existential/psychoanalytical lens. It is imperative that you have a keen understanding of both the literature and the philosophy to create a happy marriage at the end (your Term Final). So, consider how the philosophy of the course may work (often in concert) to shape our literary conclusions.
1. (Due 11/30) Thus Spoke Zarathustra–Read and annotate this excerpt from Nietzsche’s Zarathustra. The reading is located in the packet.
2. (Due 12/1) Carl Jung–Hermann Hesse’s Steppenwolf is the manifestation of Jungian influence (among other things), so it is imperative that you be familiar with Carl Jung. Research Carl Jung focusing on (but not limiting yourself to) the following: collective unconscious, anima/animus, mother archetype, shadow, complex, ego, self, persona. Additionally, research Carl Jung’s influence on Hermann Hesse. You must take notes in your binder (2 pages). As we read Steppenwolf, you will be expected to make connections to Carl Jung. Here is a good starting point. Let me stress, developing control of Jung is not optional; you are expected to develop control and demonstrate that control when discussing and writing about Steppenwolf.
3. Steppenwolf–If you can, please purchase your own copy. It’s a text that you will want to own (I think). The first reading is due 12/5 (the Preface)