Ghent University in Belgium is introducing a literature course called ‘Literature: Taylor’s Version,’ inspired by Taylor Swift. The course aims to show that seemingly complex texts can become accessible when approached from a new angle, revealing common themes between Shakespeare and Swift’s works.
Literature: Taylor’s Version – Exploring Parallels Between Shakespeare and Taylor Swift
Elly McCausland, an assistant professor at the Belgian university, aims to demonstrate that seemingly complex texts can become understandable if approached differently. For example, despite the apparent contrast, Shakespeare and Taylor Swift both address similar questions.
Speaking to The Guardian, McCausland said, “What I want to do is show students that although these texts might seem inaccessible, they can be accessible if we look at them from a slightly different angle.” She added, “So, Shakespeare, in some way, is actually addressing a lot of the same questions as Taylor Swift is today, which seems crazy. But he is.“
McCausland continued “But I think that’s actually a sign that this is needed.” she said, likening it to the reaction after Bob Dylan won the Nobel Prize in literature in 2016. “It gets people talking about what is literature, what is the canon. Can any text be literature?“
McCausland highlighted that the course blends academic rigor with Swift’s appeal, welcoming all, from fans to questioners. The emphasis is on literature and thoughtful analysis, not just fan enthusiasm.
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