Robert Frost: The American Voice

Tour the world of a great American poet with his biographer

Robert Frost is one of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century. His poems, which reflect on life, nature, and the human condition, feature on liberal arts syllabuses all around the world.

On this four-week course, you’ll embark on a journey through Frost’s vivid world and works. Your guide on this tour is none other than the award-winning poet, novelist, and Frost biographer, Dr Jay Parini.

Discover the New England landscape where Frost lived and wrote

Frost is best known for poems depicting the landscapes of rural New England, where he lived for much of his life. You’ll start this course by reading some of his classic poems, like ‘The Road Not Taken’ and ‘Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening’, together with several lesser known gems.

As you read Frost’s descriptions of his beloved New England, you’ll explore the scenes described in stunning videos shot on location.

Practise literary analysis and hone your close reading skills

Frost was first and foremost a lyric poet. In Weeks 1 and 2 of the course, you’ll examine the form and features of lyric poetry, and how they shape Frost’s own poetic style.

Through close readings of several of his best loved poems, you’ll hone your skills in literary analysis. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the art of poetry, and the vocabulary you need to understand, enjoy, and talk about poems.

Understand Frost’s contribution to American public life

Frost’s legacy expands far beyond poetry or literature. You’ll learn about Frost’s friendship with John F. Kennedy, and the role he played in public life during the Cold War. You’ll witness his wider influence on politics in documentary footage and primary sources from key moments in history.

By the end of the course, you’ll understand what makes Robert Frost a distinctly American poetic voice.

This course is designed for anyone interested in American literature, poetry, and culture in the broadest sense.

No prior knowledge of Frost or his poetry is required for this course.

This course is designed for anyone interested in American literature, poetry, and culture in the broadest sense.

No prior knowledge of Frost or his poetry is required for this course.

• Interpret Frost’s poetry through engagement with its language, structure, and themes
• Identify Frost's use of particular poetic devices, metrical structures, and poetic forms
• Investigate connections between Frost's poetry and his life, his historical period, and his geographic context
• Explain the significance of Robert Frost to American public life
• Reflect on the communal value of poetry and one what it means to read poetry in a communal setting