OSHR 1220 - Early Twentieth Century Irish Literature

This course is offered through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Colorado State University. You must be a member of Osher to enroll in this course.

Two giants of the literary canon, James Joyce and W. B. Yeats, wrote remarkable pieces of literature. Most critics agree their work is the best of what the early twentieth century offered. Explore the historical time period, 1890-1941, that produced these men and several other major Irish writers.

You will experience some of the twentieth century’s best known literature, written by these men (and others), through the use of recordings, films, and print. An historical overview of Ireland sets the scene. The works themselves will provide for what is sure to be a lively discussion. A Celtic literary feast awaits you as we explore:

- historical context of Ireland;

- poetry of W. B. Yeats: the “Celtic Twilight” period; The Tower poems, etc.

- James Joyce: the progression of his work: the wonderful day of Ulysses and his final work, Finnegan’s Wake, with its wonderful sounds and cyphers!

- Development of the Abbey Theatre

Required Reading: Participants in this course will be expected to read what is assigned ahead of time so that they might participate in discussions during class time.

Regan, S. (Ed.). (2004). Irish Writing. Oxford. [624p.].

Noncredit courses do not produce academic credit nor appear on a Colorado State University academic transcript.

Instructors

James T. Heaton

James T. Heaton has a degree in Linguistics from UCLA; his graduate studies have included Irish Literature, Anglo-Saxon, Tudor History, and Elizabethan Drama. In more recent years, he has traveled in Ireland: Dublin, West Country by bicycle, Sligo (Yeats’ home), and parts of Northern Ireland. As an actor, Mr. Heaton has performed excerpts from Yeats work, a play by O’Casey, two plays by Lady Gregory, and excerpts from Joyce’s Ulysses. At KU and UCLA, Jim knew and often talked to Walter Starkey, a contemporary of Joyce and noted Irish folk literature scholar. In addition, during his travels, he accumulated a considerable collection of photographs of relevant literary sites in Ireland. Mr. Heaton has taught literature at UNC and at Front Range Community College; he has published a few poems, and a number of articles on teaching English.

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