From my early beginnings as a young introvert, the public library has always been a bit of a refuge. Years later, not much has changed, albeit with an additional affinity for endless hours spent scouring second-hand bookstores to add to my ever-growing “to-read” pile.
From one bookworm to another, this column will be underscoring and outlining various literary genres, authors, and recent reads and can serve as an introduction for those unfamiliar with these works, as a refresher for long-time aficionados, and maybe as an inspiration for readers to share their own suggested topics. Do you have a topic that you would like covered in this column? Feel free to contact me for an interview and a feature in an upcoming column.
Who
This week’s column may appear a little different. In contrast to considering authors and genres, this particular column focuses on literary setting. Specifically, we consider novels that take place in hotels and motels.
Mainly found in the horror, thriller, and mystery genres, at times, the atmosphere of this setting may be mysterious and foreboding, at other times, it may be quite bleak.
What
Some well-known examples of hotels and motels used as a setting in literature include Psycho by Robert Bloch, The Shining by Stephen King, and A Room with a View by E. M. Forster.
Where
Many of these works are based in the United States and the United Kingdom.
When
The works take place in the 20 and 21-centuries.
Why
These texts may be of interest to AU learners who enjoy unique settings, as well as novels with a mysterious atmosphere.
How
AU’s wide range of diverse courses make it easy to study this topic in depth. Courses related to literary setting are available in a variety of disciplines, including one’s that may fit into your Degree Works. (Always check with an AU counsellor to see if these particular courses fulfill your personal graduation requirements!)
AU students interested in learning more about this topic may enroll in ENGL 344: American Literature I, a senior-level, three-credit course, which “introduces students to American literature, its history and development, and its rich variety of forms and techniques.” (Please note that this course requires several prerequisites, including ENGL 211: Prose Forms and ENGL 212: Poetry and Plays).
Students may also be interested in ENG 345: American Literature II, another senior-level, three-credit course, which “follows the introduction to American literature begun in ENGL 344. ENGL 345 continues the exploration of the history and development of American literature and its rich variety of forms and techniques.” (Once again, this course requires several prerequisites, including ENGL 211 and ENGL 212). Happy reading!