Leaves and Seed

I have an area that currently has no grass that I want to plant.  The problem is that the area has years worth of maple leaves.  It also had a lot of small brush that I already cut down.  The area is heavily shaded.  I am planning on trimming some of the trees but the area  will still be mostly shade.  The area is also wet during the spring but does dry out come summer.  I live in the Portland Maine area.  Any suggestions on what to do would be appreciated. 

Till the leaves into the soil?
Plant a ground cover for a season?
Remove the leaves?
Cry Uncle?

Thanks in advance.

I would be mighty tempted to just toss seed on top of the leaves.  The only risk there is that the seeds need to be kept moist for about two weeks.  The shadiness helps, but it will need a little more than that.  Any chance you could get a little straw?

I don't see why not.  What will the hay do for me?  Any recommendations on type of seed?

Not hay, straw. It will help retain moisture and protect the seeds while they germinate.

Tall fescue seed.  Sprinkled on the leaves.  Throw a little loose straw around (not hay).  The straw will help protect the seeds as they germinate and get started.

Straw is your best bet for loose mulch but, if it's not available, you can use dead hay.  to find out if the hay is dead, first, make sure it's at least "first cut" from a year ago.  Older if you can get it.
  If you get some, open up the bale in a sunny spot and water it a little over a few days.  See if anything grows out of it.  If not, then, it's dead and safe to use.  Don't soak it though.  You won't be able to use it if it's sopping wet.
  If grass and/or weeds start growing out of it, ya probly don't wanna use it.