Literature: Reading Boris Pastenak and Helen Dunmore - Doctor Zhivago and Zennor in Darkness
Course details
Course code
Q00016882Course date
Number of classes
10 sessionsTimetable
Tutor
Catherine HumphrisFee range
How you'll learn
Venue
OnlineLevel of study
Entry Levels 1,2,3: If you have never studied this subject before and you鈥檙e not confident in your skills, Entry levels are a good starting point.
Level 1: Covers basic skills and knowledge needed for this subject
Level 2: Building on basic knowledge or experience. Similar to Grade 4/ C at GCSE or O level in England or Standards in Scotland.
Level 3: Learn about the topic in-depth and have a broad range of skills. Independent working Equivalent to an A level in England or Higher in Scotland.
Beginners: A perfect introduction if you have no experience and skills in this subject.
Improvers: The next step if you have basic skills or knowledge but want to progress them further.
Advanced: Build on the solid experience and skills you have in this subject, applying your skills and knowledge in a more complex way.
Availability
Course overview
Course description
We will be discussing the unabridged version of Doctor Zhivago by Boris Pasternak. There are several translations. The three main ones are: Max Hayward and Manya Harari; Richard Pevear and Larissa Volokhonsky, and the most recent, by Nicolas Pasternak Slater. Any of these will be suitable, as one of the things we will be thinking about is the impact translators have on our reading experience. It is probable that most of us will be more familiar with the 1965 film than the text. We will consider how that connects to our reading experience, too.
This is a big novel, about a big moment, with an appropriately large cast of characters. We will discuss it in chronological sections, tracking events and thinking about how they work.
Helen Dunmore鈥檚 Zennor in Darkness should offer an interesting contrast. We will think about the way she translates the past, and look at key features of style, characterisation and content.
Both authors were poets, so we will also consider the ways that might be reflected in their prose.
The tutor will provide a reading schedule, but please read to the end of chapter 2, A Girl from a Different World, for discussion at the first session.
-
What financial support is available?
-
We don't want anything to stand in your way when it comes to bringing Adult learning within reach so if you need anything to support you to achieve your goals then speak to one of our education experts during your enrolment journey. Most of our courses are government funded but if you don't qualify or need alternative financial help to access them then let us know.
-
What other support is available?
-
All of our digital content, teaching and learning activities and assessments are designed to be accessible so if you need any additional support you can discuss this with the education experts during your enrolment journey and we will do all we can to make sure you have optimal access.