EN2XX/EN3XX: Mystical Literatures

This module explores what draws so many creative thinkers and writers to reflect on the mysterious, unsayable, and hidden being of the Judeo-Christian God. Mystical writers seek to understand and connect with the transformative presence of God, and turn to many aesthetic forms (philosophy, theology, poetry, art, music) to contemplate and describe their experiences of God. By exploring texts from the Song of Songs to Allen Ginsberg’s Howl, the module asks: what are the pressures that mystical encounters put on literary expression? What are the formal or stylistic innovations that mysticism encourages? How does mystical literature help us to reflect on the inner or interior life and the idea of spiritual growth?

The module proceeds historically but introduces contemporary texts where they might help clarify and resonate with some of the earlier texts (for example, we'll explore Hildegard of Bingen through Hilma of Klint’s modern paintings and Rosalía's Lux). While the module is focused on the Judaeo-Christian literary tradition, elements of other mystical religions will be discussed (for example, T. S. Eliot’s reading of the Hindu Bhagavad Gita, and Carl Jung’s reading of the Tao de Ching).