I LOVED this class. Clare Kinney is absolutely amazing. She solidified in my mind my desire to become an English major at UVA. There are pretty hefty readings assigned before each lecture, but I thought the material was interesting so it was never painful. She posts lecture outlines on Collab so note-taking is really easy. She mentions certain passages in lecture: underline them! We had discussion once a week; I also really enjoyed that. The two 5-6 page papers together = 30% of final grade. We had short responses on specific readings and 2 papers, a midterm and a final. The eight short responses to readings together = 15% of final grade. Mid-term = 15% of final grade. Section participation = 10% of final grade. Final exam = 30% of final grade. There was also an optional recitation of a bit of Paradise Lost, which I did and got 5 points added on to my exam grade. Overall I would definitely recommend taking this class and anything else taught by Professor Kinney!

Requirement for English majors. Interesting readings even for those who prefer more contemporary literature. Hard exams though and papers were graded harshly too. Kinney is a great lecturer; really funny.