About this course

This module is the third part in the Poetry in America series covering the poetry of Walt Whitman. It deeply explores Whitman’s relationship with the City, the Self, and the Body, presented by a team including distinguished figures like Greg LeMond, Elena Kagan, and Karen Karbiener, under the leadership of Harvard Professor Elisa New.

At a glance

  • Institution: HarvardX
  • Subject: Humanities
  • Level: Introductory
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Language: English
  • Video Transcript: English

What you'll learn

  • Understand Whitman's innovations in the American poetic tradition
  • Identify various poetic devices
  • Develop effective strategies for analyzing poems
  • Enhance appreciation and critical understanding of language and historical context

Course Coverage

  • Whitman’s influence on American poetry
  • Poetic forms and devices used by Whitman
  • Methods for approaching and interpreting poems
  • Historical context of Whitman's work

Who this course is for

  • Students of literature
  • American history enthusiasts
  • Poetry lovers
  • Anyone interested in understanding American culture through poetry

Real-world application

Skills gained from this course can enhance critical reading and analytical skills, enrich cultural and historical understanding, and improve appreciation for literary arts. These skills are invaluable in academic, professional, and personal settings.