DDRO 27A62 - 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 introduce key legal concepts. Students will be invited to select one literary work to present and discuss in one of the sessions (e.g. from Akutagawa, Borges, Brecht, Christie, Dostoevsky, Dürrenmatt, Kafka, Lee, Voltaire or Woolf).

Course Objectives

The initial segment 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.

Assignments and assessment will be discussed in the first sessions.

• In Class Presentation 40%
• In Class Participation 15%
• Writing Project 45%