PHIL2609 Philosophy and Literature

This topic is both a philosophical examination of literature and an examination of how literature may contribute to philosophy. Specific issues and questions to be discussed will include: What makes a work of literature a work of art?; What makes something a work of literature?; How can readers respond emotionally to fictional characters?; Is one of the central values of literature to impart truths?; In what ways might literature as literature contribute to moral understanding?

This topic aims to introduce students to:

• Important questions in literary/philosophical aesthetics
• The most influential critical theories of literature

1. Explain the central philosophical issues and problems concerning literature discussed in the topic
2. Critically assess the philosophical responses to the above problems
3. Write clearly in responding to the questions in literary/philosophical aesthetics discussed in this topic