Comparative Literature Special Study Half Seminar

Hannah Arendt's writings have been criticized for their limited vision of the political sphere. Yet, her reflections continue to inform contemporary debates on civil disobedience, violence, and freedom in ways worth considering. In this course, we will work with both the limits and the promise of Arendt's writing for the present, her engagement with Kafka and Benjamin on tradition, authority, and power, and her critique of both individualist and collective notions of freedom implied by her ideas of plurality, concerted action, and revolution. Course is by permission of the instructor only. Please write a one-page letter to the instructor indicating what brings you to this course, what preparation you have, and how it fits with your ongoing interests. Send your letter of interest to complituga@berkeley.edu no later than Sunday, December 4.