Narrative Identities

Inleiding

Learn about different philosophical theories of narrative identity and confront them with different ways of unfolding narrative identities in literature

How do you answer the question Who are you? You can just tell me your name. But you can also tell a story. Philosophical theories of narrative identity presuppose, that narrative structures are essential for the formation and/or self-understanding of personal identity, which is not reducible to a mere numerical identity.

In this course, we will discuss different philosophical theories of narrative identity and confront them with different ways of unfolding narrative identities in literature. Literary narratives about fictional or real persons and their life stories can be fragmented, multi-perspective, and very creative in their handling of fact and fiction. Literature allows us to “try on stories like clothes”. What does this tell us about philosophical theories of narrative identity and their normative implications?

Prior knowledge

You need to have obtained a minimum of 90 EC in Bachelor 1 and 2 to register. 

Language

English; lectures will be recorded

Period

Bachelor 3, block 2B; 3 January until 4 February 2022

Course guide

Please consult the course guide for the timetable and other information. Can be found here from November 2021.