Columbia Lit Hum Reading List: A Journey Through Western Literature
The Columbia University Literature Humanities course, often called “Lit Hum,” is a cornerstone of the Core Curriculum, taking students on a chronological journey through seminal works of Western literature. The reading list is designed to expose students to a broad range of ideas, perspectives, and literary styles, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. The course aims to build a shared intellectual foundation among students, regardless of their major.
What is the Columbia Lit Hum Course?
Lit Hum is a year-long course mandatory for all Columbia College undergraduates. It’s known for its challenging workload and the intellectual rigor it demands. The course emphasizes close reading, textual analysis, and discussion. Students engage with texts from ancient Greece and Rome to the early modern period, examining their historical context and enduring relevance.
The Core Texts of the Lit Hum Reading List
The reading list is carefully curated and features a diverse selection of foundational works. While the specific editions may vary, the core texts generally include:
- Homer, The Iliad and The Odyssey
- Greek Tragedians (Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides): Oresteia, Oedipus Rex, Antigone, Medea
- Plato, The Republic
- Virgil, The Aeneid
- Augustine, Confessions
- Dante, Inferno
- Boccaccio, The Decameron
- Shakespeare, plays (e.g., Hamlet, King Lear)
- Cervantes, Don Quixote
You can learn more about the historical and cultural context of many of these works on Wikipedia’s article on the Western Canon.
Why is Lit Hum Important?
Lit Hum isn’t just about reading old books. It’s about developing skills in critical thinking, reading comprehension, and persuasive argumentation. The course challenges students to engage with complex ideas, analyze different perspectives, and articulate their own interpretations. These skills are valuable in any field of study and in life.
Challenges and Rewards of Lit Hum
The demanding workload can be intimidating for some students. However, the rewards are significant. Students who complete Lit Hum often report a deeper understanding of Western culture, improved critical thinking skills, and a greater appreciation for the power of literature. The shared experience of grappling with these texts also fosters a sense of community among students.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lit Hum
What is the hardest book to read in Lit Hum?
This varies from person to person. Some find the epic poetry of Homer or Virgil challenging due to the language and length. Others struggle with the philosophical complexities of Plato or Augustine.
Is Lit Hum worth the effort?
Most students and alumni agree that despite the workload, Lit Hum is a valuable and enriching experience that significantly enhances their intellectual development.
How much reading is assigned per week in Lit Hum?
The amount of reading varies, but expect to read around 100-200 pages per week, depending on the specific texts assigned.
Can I get credit for Lit Hum if I took AP Literature?
Typically, AP credit does not exempt students from Lit Hum. It is a core requirement for all Columbia College undergraduates.
Does Lit Hum focus on all genres of literature?
The course primarily focuses on epic poetry, drama, philosophical texts, and early novels, but it offers a broad overview of significant works in Western literature.
Summary
Columbia University’s Literature Humanities course provides a rigorous introduction to Western literature, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a shared intellectual foundation among its students. While challenging, the course offers significant rewards in terms of intellectual growth and a deeper understanding of Western culture.
Leave a Reply