Intermediate Great Book Discussion

This is a year-long course designed for students who may have had introduction to Great Books, but because of various reasons may not be ready for full Socratic-style, Great Books discussion. In order to develop stronger reading comprehension, students learn to implement reading techniques highlighted by Mortimer J. Adler in his foundational work How to Read a Book. Students will read non-fiction, fiction, and poetry. They will begin by identifying key terms and phrases, and gradually advance to analyzing chapter and book themes. Students will learn how to use the text to interpret the text, and put forth an articulate defense during class discussions. Additionally, students will write in common place journals and regularly submit short essays. Although times may vary depending on ability, students can expect to invest 60-90 minutes in daily, weekday preparation.

Course Objectives:

1. To teach students how to read deeply
2. To prepare for Socratic-style discussions
3. To clearly state an argument with supporting text reference
4. To write short essays pertaining to the text

Texts:

• On Reading Well: Finding the Good Life Through Great Books by Karen Swallow Prior
• The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis
• Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
• Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan

Shorter PDF articles and poems will be provided.