Why read? What’s so important about reading? I don’t think anyone answers that question better than Bard College Professor Joseph Luzzi, a favorite among One Day U students, who is featured in all of today’s video clips. As he explains in this excerpt, using Harper Lee’s memorable novel To Kill a Mockingbird as an example, it’s the ability to see the world through the eyes of others which truly makes reading so special.
The Changing Relationship of Fitzgerald and Hemingway
In the 1920’s, F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway became friendly, with the former in the role of master teacher and the latter as willing pupil. After a short time though, that relationship changed as Hemingway’s popularity soared.
The Great American Novel?
A few different novels by various authors are sometimes considered candidates for the mythical title “Great American Novel.” Professor Luzzi thinks one very strong candidate is John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath.
From the Very First Words
Jane Austen’s amazing wit and tone is evident on the very first page of her masterpiece, Pride and Prejudice.
The Netflix of the 1840’s
Nearly 200 years ago, Charles Dickens was already the most popular writer in England. He was a major celebrity whom millions sought out every day for entertainment.
EXTENDED LENGTH SEMINARS WITH PROFESSOR JOSEPH LUZZI
Charles Dickens Seminar
Discover what has made Charles Dickens one of the most beloved and bestselling novelists of all time.
Jane Austen Seminar
Discover what has made Jane Austen one of the most influential novelists of all time.
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