Topics in Literature and Philosophy: Word and Omen

Divination might be defined as the inference of sense from passing circumstance, be it the flight of birds or the movement of the planets, handwriting or coffee grounds. This seminar explores speech as the object of divination. We study ancient oracles and prophecies, medieval riddles, modern haunting phrases, and Freudian "slips." At the same time, we discuss the techniques of reading to which they have given rise in literature, religion, and psychoanalysis.