FOLK 560: Topics in Genre and Theory

FOLK 560-001: Personal Narrative
(Spring 2027)

04:30 PM to 07:10 PM M

Krug Hall 19

View the schedule of classes

Section Information for Spring 2027

Telling stories is central to human communication; we narrate our existence, shaping our world through the stories we tell. The focus of this course is on these stories, the stories we tell in conversations, to our friends, and about ourselves. Over the course of the semester, we’ll think about the social functions of personal narrative. We’ll explore how personal narratives provide their tellers with coherence and work as resources for navigating the ambiguities and messiness of experience. We’ll also study how narratives operate as presentations of self and work to create and maintain personal and group identity. Finally, we’ll discuss the politics of storytelling; we’ll think about how storytelling functions as a vital strategy for sustaining a sense of agency in the face of disempowering circumstances.  

Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 3

Explores topics related to folklore genres and theory such as folk narrative, folklore and the supernatural, performance theory, gender and sexuality, bodylore, and sense of place. Offered by English. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes.