In the Fall of 2016, I began studies at the University of Illinois at Chicago to earn a Master’s degree in English with an emphasis on writing. My first required course, ENGL 500 Masters Proseminar, concentrated in an analysis and exploration of literary criticism.
The course, held Wednesday evenings, was challenging, to say the least. Each week, the class of 12 had to read required essays, poems, short stories or other works of literature and draft two-page reports. Students also had to participate in discussions, which often were lively.
The final project was completion of a 15-page paper that included insight into the genres of literary criticism studied.
My final paper was titled, Affect Criticism Today: An Analysis of Its Value Through Scholarly Comparisons and Emotions Raised in Reading Catcher in the Rye.
You are welcome to read my essay and share your thoughts.
Edward M. Bury 