Once upon a time, there were two brothers who never set out to become major influencers of Western culture, but did so anyway. When Jakob and Wilhelm Grimm published their first volume of fairy tales in December 1812, they surely could not imagine that what began as a collection of tales ostensibly embodying German culture would, centuries later, be thought of as part of a common heritage underpinning the literature and language of Western society. In this course, we will read some of the seminal tales collected by the Brothers Grimm, as well as some of the literary tales that were inspired by – and also themselves inspired! – the folkloric versions. We will then consider how these early tales continue to shape cultural production today, examining, for example, how their form has influenced children’s literature as a genre. We’ll also trace how their narratives resurface in poetry and prose written by and for adults, as well as in television and film.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 15

Prerequisites: None. Open only to First-Years.

Instructor: Hans

Degree Requirements: WFY - First Year Writing

Typical Periods Offered: Spring

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Spring

Notes: Mandatory Credit/Non Credit.