I've had my first class at Winchester, and feel as if I am taking an almighty leap into the dark. Literally and metaphorically, since I am studying Gothic Horror (and Fairytale), but I am also studying at a level and in a field of which I am unfamiliar, so there is a lot of learning to do in all directions.
I was a bit taken aback to be requested to choose the topic of my final seminar paper for this module on the first night. I have an initial interest in exploring British Pantomime as a vehicle for fairytale, but other topics have floated through my head since then. I don't have to present until May - so I have plenty of time to think about it.
Only eight people in my class, so there will be plenty of opportunity for discussion. We also have several screenings of different films. Neil Jordan's "Company of Wolves", based on Angela Carter's story, is scheduled for next Tuesday's class and, just as excitingly, there are numerous other events going on at the University to feed the intellect.
Next week, for instance, I will attend an afternoon research seminar given by Jack Zipes, professor of German at Minnesota University but
more relevantly an acknowledged authority and widely published author on folklore, myth & fairytale. Unfortunately, (I won't be able to catch
another public lecture given by Mick Aston, who has headed up the immensely popular TV archaeology programme "Time Team" here in the UK for the last 15 years - he will be speaking while I am attending class. So many choices, so many riches - what a luxury!
I would not be honest if I did not say that I also find the prospect of the course slightly daunting, both from the aspect of keeping up academically with the work, but also organising the rest of my life around that academic work (at the momoent, all I want to do is read and research - the washing up and the vacuuming are being neglected). But then, I always knew it would be a challenge - its just that now I am sitting in the middle of that challenge, rather than viewing it from afar!!
To make things even more satisfying, I am holed up here at home, able to reach you all via the Internet, but snowed up outside with the heaviest fall of the white stuff that we have had for many years - isn't it beautiful? Quite like a fairytale, in fact :-).
Oh your snow photos _are_ fairytale-like.
And you continue to amaze me with your self-set task.
It seems only natural to be a bit befuddled, when just beginning, though. Everything is new... Even to how you arrange all your continuing life duties... like washing and vacuuming and the like. But you'll work it all out.
Maybe cut yourself lots of slack in the beginning... Till you figure out how to 'do it all.' After all, where is it written that we _have_ to do it all! All the time. :-)
'MN'
Posted by: 'MN' | Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 13:52
The graphics you posted are wonderful Roz. Are those some from your own collection? I know you'll get the schedule worked out and just think of all the adventures ahead with this course.
The snow with the Autumn Cottage sign looks so beautiful.
Posted by: Darla | Thursday, February 08, 2007 at 16:50
I love your snow photos Roz.
And your course sounds wonderful, I'm **glowing** green with envy over here..!!
Are the illustrations you show by Rackham...they remind me of his work, but I'm a fan not an expert and I am not familiar with these..?
Posted by: sheila | Friday, February 09, 2007 at 00:38
The snow looks wonderful, and the course sounds intriguing...and I also love the illustrations...how nice!
Posted by: stacie Florer | Friday, February 09, 2007 at 17:08
This is my first visit to Autumn Cottage... Lovely snow pics you've got (mine has finally melted away.) Interesting subject you've taken on; my son would no doubt love it as he's decided to become an English major. He's currently taking an Old English class and working on 'translating' the bible (from English to English, lol!)
Posted by: Tracey | Saturday, February 10, 2007 at 15:27
I've been missing you, checking in from time to time just to see what's going on in your part of the world, so this week's posts are a delightful surprise.
I wish we had snow. It happens so infrequently in Phoenix. :(
How brave of you to take this Master's program on, Roz! Best wishes and good luck on your course. I know you'll work out how it fits into life as you go along. You're going to relish this!
Posted by: Marilyn | Saturday, February 10, 2007 at 19:48
Yes, academic reading is all consuming.
When there are 800 page reading assignments dropping in on your life every week, vacuuming and personal hygiene becomes irrelevant. Thinking is a constant activity,waking and sleeping, as you process the information. And yes, you can get a brain cramp!
Don't fret a feather. DO share as much of your academic wonder as your finger tips, brain, eyes and time will allow. Every scrap is gratefully received.
Jill
Posted by: jill | Saturday, February 10, 2007 at 23:06
Love your Autumn Cottage sign on the fence Roz and the snow pictures are beautiful. Stay cozy.
Posted by: carolyn | Wednesday, February 14, 2007 at 23:56
Love your Autumn Cottage sign on the fence Roz and the snow pictures are beautiful. Stay cozy.
Posted by: carolyn | Wednesday, February 14, 2007 at 23:56
What beautiful pictures from around your home Roz! You might like this blog.....The Endicott Studio for Mythic Arts
http://www.endicottstudio.typepad.com/
tea
xo
Posted by: tea | Wednesday, February 21, 2007 at 17:49