The Literature of Nature

Our fascination with nature and humankind's relationship to it stretches back to antiquity. Writers throughout the ages, in an attempt to discern its mystery, beauty and power, have acutely observed, immersed themselves in, and thought deeply about the non-human world. Drawing on texts spanning two millennia, explore the evolution of this affecting, often strikingly beautiful literature; a tradition which helped shape our understanding of, and feelings for the natural world. Close readings may include the work of Virgil, Chaucer, Shakespeare, Fancis Bacon, John Keats, William Wordsworth, Jack London, William Faulkner, Rachel Carson, and Leslie Marmon Silko.