History – The Novel as Social History – Books for Summer Reading – Summer Term

COURSE OVERVIEW

If you love books, reading, social and cultural history, and lots of lively discussion in a relaxed, informal atmosphere then this one-day course is definitely for you!

This is a unique one-day study session comprising literature and social and cultural history. Within the pages of the novel we discover more than a story – enthralling ‘other’; information about people, relationships, class and place. A different, unusual, exciting way of reading and learning in a friendly, relaxed group.

We discuss books for summer reading from a selection of three novels with lots of background social and cultural history to be read before class, plus further recommendations.

Whilst reading, make notes on the social and cultural history you are finding which is not the main theme. You then participate in lively group discussion in the relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Novels to be read: Greengates by R.C. Sheriff (1936), The Last of Summer by Kate O’;Brien (1943), The Village by Marghanita Laski, (1953).

N.B. Some novels contain outdated language, attitudes and cultural depictions which cause offence today. They have to be read and viewed from an historic perspective. When discussing the content these views are not those of the tutor.

Tutor Sarah Tobias. This workshop will run on a Saturday 1100-1500