Fall Term, 2000

Tuesday, Thursday: 8:30-10:00, ARH 317

Instructor: Scott Cook

Office Hours at ARH 217B (269-4248; cook@grinnell.edu):

M W F 11:00-11:30 & 1:30-2:30; Tu (to be determined); and by appointment

This tutorial will examine the issue of music and its social and cosmological implications as they have been understood throughout the ages and across different cultures. From the Pythagorean "harmony of the spheres" and the Platonic theory of modal influences, to Confucian notions of musical self-mastery and social harmony, to philosophies of music in medieval Islam, to more recent debates over the proper limitations of musical expression, we will explore theories of musical order, expression, and influence as they have manifested themselves in various cultural contexts.

Through our examination of readings related to the above themes, we shall focus on sharpening our abilities to analyze and think critically, evaluate the soundness and effectiveness of arguments employed by various authors (both ancient and modern), and learn to more effectively create our own arguments in both oral and written form.

Fulwiler, Hayakawa & Kupper, eds., The College Writer's Reference

In addition to regular class-preparatory assignments, four formal written assignments of various lengths and one formal oral presentation will be required. The final paper will take the form of a research paper. Refer to the schedule for details. I would encourage everyone, regardless of how well he or she may write, to explore the writing lab at least once. Regular attendance and active participation in class discussion will be essential to your grade.

Aside from the printed reading materials you will purchase, a home page for this course may be found at the following URL:

http://www.grinnell.edu/individuals/cook/music.htm

(It should also soon be accessible through the Grinnell College Library's home page). The course's home page contains a copy of this syllabus, links to various resources, and musical examples. The page also links directly to a site wherein you can�and will�post links to web sites that you will create yourself on the basis of written assignments. Everyone in the class will thereby have the chance to read and critique your and everyone else's papers without resorting to massive photocopying. Details will be given in class. The web page may be expanded and updated at various points throughout the semester. Suggestions are welcome and encouraged.

Week 1 Introduction