In this discussion-based literature course, we will discuss Karl Ove Knausgaard’s epic My Struggle, which explores themes of identity, shame and gender norms—particularly social expectations faced by men—in the form of a relentlessly penetrating study of the author’s relationships as he attempts to come to terms with them. Knausgaard’s exploration of the most mundane aspects of his life urge the reader to ponder the weightiest aspects of human nature, and his brutal self-analysis spares no one, not even himself as the narrator. Not unlike the novels of Proust and Joyce, Knausgaard’s My Struggle steers the reader so completely into the psyche of the narrator that the reader is almost overwhelmed by the intensity and brutal honesty of his narrative.
Controversy has arisen regarding Knausgaard’s work. First, his use of real characters, whom he unapologetically dissects for the purpose of his story, led his own family to sue him and his publisher to suppress certain painful elements of their lives. Second, the reference to Hitler’s Mein Kampf, upon which the title and premise is somewhat based, must be considered. Why has he chosen this connection despite an obvious distaste for everything Hitler and fascism represented?
Why have readers become so fascinated with the most intimate thoughts and details of Knausgaard’s life? Should one air one’s “dirty linen” before the public? Is My Struggle an honest exploration of the human psyche, a journey that is ultimately our own, or is it self-indulgently confessional and virtually inaccessible due to its highly personal nature? Join us as we explore these questions together.
This course is held on Zoom. Please make sure to have the Zoom application installed before the first class.
Required texts:
Participants must obtain a copy of the required texts at the bookstore or library of their choice.
Standard Tuition: $160.00
New Participant Tuition: $115.00
Day: Thursdays
Time: 1:30 - 3:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Course leaders: Zsolt Alapi, Murray Shugar
First session: April 8 2027
Course length: 6 weeks
Degree credit: 1.5
Maximum number of participants: 18
Please note that the Thomas More Institute does not allow participants to audit courses for free.
About the Thomas More Institute: The Thomas More Institute has been providing adults with stimulating lifelong learning opportunities in Montreal since 1945. A secular and non-profit academic institution, TMI offers an ever-evolving choice of university-level courses in the liberal arts, including discussion-based courses, lecture-style courses, writing workshops, and more. Our courses are held in small groups, offering an alternative learning environment to that of traditional university courses. You can take individual courses that interest you, or work toward a structured bachelor of arts degree or comprehensive certificate that involve additional coursework. Share Your Curiosity at TMI!
About course fees: all prices displayed include Tuition and the Administrative fee.
Leaders of another course, and anyone else wishing to register by phone, should call (514) 935-9585 to register.
All course participants registering should read and abide by the Thomas More Institute Code of Conduct.
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