COML 1139

FWS: The Art of Criticism

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2024-2025 Catalog. Courses of Study 2024-2025 is scheduled to publish mid-June.

In this course, we will read works of literary, cultural, music, art, and film criticism aimed at a popular audience, from a range of magazines and other publications. We will discuss what makes a successful work of criticism, why we read criticism, and how criticism has changed over time. Readings will include Virginia Woolf, George Orwell, James Baldwin, and Joan Didion. Writing assignments will include analysis of works of criticism and then criticism in practice, as you apply what we have learned and write and revise critical essays on topics of your choice. 

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025SP, 2024SP

Distribution Category (WRT-AG)

When Offered Fall, Spring.

Satisfies Requirement First-Year Writing Seminar.

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