Rainer Maria Rilke: Poetry and the Meaning of Life

One of the greatest poets of the modern era, Rilke offers in his poetry lasting images of nature, love, and aesthetic beauty. At the same time, Rilke's poetry is a unique form of human thought. Many of his poems are poetic meditations on the meaning of human life in a world of great uncertainties. Other poems express poetic wisdom regarding the human condition of finitude, spiritual orientation, and our ability to persevere in the face of pain and loss. This course will serve as an introduction to Rilke's poetry and its place in the modernist canon while discussing its capacity to offer insight, comfort, and hope. NOTE: Enrollment requires Professor Eshel's consent. Please complete the following form to be considered for the class. https://forms.gle/znuNUNhHwpf5pb2EA. Enrollment is limited to 20 students. Students will be notified about their acceptance by March 20th and given a permission code. UPDATE 3/2/23 - There was a problem with the original form. Please edit your response to include your name.