Great American Novel Series:  The Narrator-Agent in Selected Novels With Bob Baginski, Ph.D.

This seminar begins with an introduction to several authors' perspectives on literature, the history of the novel, the American novel tradition, the "-isms," and narrative point of view.

The first-person point of view, or I-narrator, has proven to be a fertile, flexible technique for American novelists.  We will examine a particular type of I-narrator who appears in about 30 of our better novels:  “the narrator-agent.”

Participants will discuss each novel’s plot, themes, characters, and role in the American literary tradition.  A major focus is on form, and especially narrative technique:  How did the author create that work of art?

Schedule

All classes will be on Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the Harper Meeting Room of the Margaret and James Harper, Jr. Library.  We will study three great American novels:

• January 15, 2026   -  Introduction to the Seminar
• January 29, 2026   - F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby
• February 12, 2026 - Robert Penn Warren’s  All the King’s Men
• February 26, 2026 - Ken Kesey’s One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest

Seminar Format

Classes include brief lecture followed by structured discussion.   Participants are expected to read each novel prior to the date indicated–and come fired up with questions and insights.  YOU are the real star of any work of literature, and there are no “right” or “wrong” views.

Registration

Register below or call 910-253-1813.

About the Instructor

Baginski earned his doctorate in English from Ohio University, specializing in American literature and linguistics.  He taught English and literature—plus marketing, branding, and supply chain management—at six universities.  For several years he has taught versions of the  “Great American Novel Series” at OSHER-UNCW and to Brunswick County groups.  He and his wife, Anh Pham-Baginski, have lived in Caswell Beach and Oak Island for 20 years.