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The Knowledge of Poetry
Gedicht und Wissen
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:29:06
Abstract
Novalis once described poetry as "the mind's inherent way of acting". Thinking takes place in verses and images, rather than concepts and formulas. If this were true, every spontaneous cognition would amount to poetry and each thought essentially to a poem -- a structure combining and concentrating ideas, perceptions, and emotions. Knowledge and poetry would be one.
Objective
Such is the promise literature has made since its inception, a promise we will examine in this class by considering mainly lyrical compositions in verse, from the beginnings to the present. The central question is: What do poems know and what is the relationship between thinking in verse and technical and scientific knowledge?
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- DS , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 35
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Gedicht und Wissen |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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