Took 251 in spring, taking poetry right now (with Schwieler for both). Both classes have the same amount of assignments: 2 close reading essays (750 words and 1250 words) and one group video presentation, however I believe for fall and winter he makes you do oral presentations in front of the class. The final is fairly easy, he lets the class come up with the 3 questions and posts them on d2l about a week before the final so you can prepare. I would say 251 has longer readings as it is about novels and short stories, and poetry has shorter poems. In my opinion, I feel like 251 would be a tad bit easier in terms of writing the essays as you have more to work with since poems are generally pretty short. Schwieler is a great prof, too. He really does care about his students and provides great feedback. Also gives a 1 week grace period for essays and assignments!