The problem with grade deflation

[jethrien]

So this whole grade deflation crusade Princeton's on seems to me like a way to ensure that people don't take risks in choosing classes. After all, why take a class in a subject you know nothing of when you're likely to end up with a C?

Why is this being mused on now? Because I'm trying to write a paper on a subject I know nothing about. A few months ago, I said to myself, "Hey, self. You've never taken a classics class before. Or anything in medieval studies. Here's a cross listed medieval studies/classics class on sex and gender in the ancient world. Let's take it!" And now I'm trying to compare Ragegund's The Fall of Thuringia to the Aeneid or Old English elegies like the Wanderer. The problem? I've read neither the Aeneid nor the Wanderer.

And it's a four person class. Which has both its good and very, very bad points.

Sigh.

Comments

help on the way?

[katertoticus.livejournal.com]

So I haven't read The Fall of Thuringia, but I have studied the Aeneid a couple of times and know it pretty well for a non-classicist (epic poetry happens to be one of my favorite genres, and the Aeneid and the Odyssey are two of my favorite books). I've specifically compared the Aeneid and the Odyssey and the Aeneid and Exodus (on very separate occasions), and given quite a bit of thought to the differences in the kinds of wanderings described in each book.

I have a feeling I might be able to help. Shall I give you a call when I get home (5:30-6ish)? Or you can call me at work for a bit, maybe around lunchtime, if you need more urgent inspiration.

Let me know.

Re: help on the way?

[jethrien.livejournal.com]

I think I've managed to get things worked out. Frantically read chunks. Anyway, it's due at 4:30, and I have an interview at 11:15, so I'm not really around anyway.