DDRO 25A79 - Law and Literature

The dynamic interplay between Law and Literature unfurls its intricacies through a myriad of perspectives. It is explored by diverse audiences from the realms of literature and the legal sphere: oftentimes with similar, albeit not perfectly overlapping interests or aims in mind. Tailored for undergraduate students harbouring a fondness for law and/or literature in general, the course adopts a broad comparative perspective drawing upon an eclectic compilation of literary works and legal materials. Sessions will permit a first introduction to a set of key legal concepts and notions. Students will be invited to select one literary work to present and discuss in one of the sessions (Akutagawa, Borges, Brecht, Christie, Dostoevsky, Dürrenmatt, Giraudoux, Kafka, Kitamura, Lee etc.).

The first part of the course aims to train students to properly identify and distinguish between a series of perspectives through which the interplay between Law and Literature may be observed, such as “Law in Literature”, “Law on Literature” or “Law as Literature.” Subsequently, the latter part of the course delves into themes that resonate deeply within the legal sphere. Themes such as the adjudicatory process, the role and ethical obligations of actors, legal interpretation, the quest for legal truth, and the aesthetic dimensions of the law take centre stage during these sessions.

The course is open to all students with an interest in law and/or literature in general. Prior or parallel attendance of law courses is a plus, but not a prerequisite.

Students must prepare all the materials which will be actively discussed in class. All materials listed in the syllabus are (absent contradictory indication) mandatory and available on the Google Drive .

• Presentation (Prepared in advance, presented in class) [40%]
• Participation (General participation throughout the term) [15%]
• Final Writing Project (Group) [45%]