World Literature (with Honors option)

Class Time:​ 12:35 - 1:35

Grade level: 9th - 12th

Instructor: ​ Elizabeth Nikzad

Contact Information:​ enikzad121@gmail.com

Course Description:​ 

Embark on a captivating exploration of human expression through the ages in World Literature. This course transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, delving into the rich tapestry of stories, poems, plays, and essays that have shaped civilizations and continue to resonate with readers today. These timeless tales illuminate our shared human condition: across this world, we all have the same hopes, dreams, loves, and struggles. You’ll see how God used the myths and stories of ancient peoples to speak to our consciences, and so be prepared to hear the Truth of Jesus and the Gospels.

Knowing the great books of history is also crucial to understanding literary allusions that famous writers use as a kind of shorthand: “got that Midas touch,” “that’s a herculean task,” you Jezebel,” and “as two-faced as Janus.” Join in the literary conversation of academics and other well-educated folks.

Finally, we read because these stories are amazing! Join me as we read about a king’s journey to bring back his best friend from the afterlife, a writer’s wrong turn that leads him into a journey through Hell, a teen’s fight with a giant twice his size (and lots more Bible stories you should know), a naïve man’s interesting pilgrimage to Canterbury with people from all walks of life, a warrior’s twenty-year journey home from war, an old knight’s lunacy where he thinks a windmill is his enemy, a desperate man’s deal with the Devil, and much much more.

In 32 weeks, we cannot possibly do justice to all of the great works of world literature, so in many cases, we will read excerpts from longer works and watch films. By the end of the course, you will have a comprehensive view of world literature in its cultural and historical context through the prism of our Catholic faith.

Semester 1: World Mythology, the Monomyth and other Archetypes, Sacred Scripture, and Literary Allusions

Semester 2: World Masterpieces from the Middle Ages to Modern Times

Honors option available.

Tuition:  $400 (Honors option: additional $20)

Class Size:  8 - 16 

Course Materials: 

Please obtain these specific editions (I will supplement these texts with PDFs of other works):

• Rosenberg, Donna. World Mythology: An Anthology of the Great Myths and Epics. Second Edition. New York: McGraw Hill, 1994. Paperback. ISBN 978-0-8442-5767-9
• Applebee, et al. The Language of Literature: World Literature. McDougal Littell, 2006. Hardback textbook. ISBN 0-618-60141-4

Teacher Qualifications:​ Elizabeth Nikzad is a dedicated educator and child development advocate. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Virginia Tech and brings three years of experience teaching at St. Veronica Catholic School. During her time there, she developed and implemented novel units, provided mentorship to students in reading, math, and writing, and effectively integrated technology into the classroom, particularly during the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. For the past three years, Elizabeth has served the Virginia Department of Education, observing and evaluating early childhood education settings. Currently, she is pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University, driven by her aspiration to one day serve children and adolescents and support their mental health needs through a Catholic perspective. Elizabeth has 3 young daughters and is a parishioner at St. Veronica Catholic Church. )