Studies in Literature and Culture (385-0-20)
Topic
Monsters: Real and Imagined
Instructors
Adam Cody Syvertsen
Meeting Info
University Hall 318: Mon, Wed 12:30PM - 1:50PM
Overview of class
Whether fathoms beneath the ocean's surface or in the shadowy spots under our beds, supernatural beasts lurk just outside the range of our perceptions—until they emerge from concealment in order to wreak havoc! What drives our morbid fascination with these creatures? Drawing on insights from literary scholars who have explored the role of monsters in our cultural imaginary, this course aims to explore how monstrous depictions reflect the fears, desires, prohibitions, and prescriptions of the societies that create them. From the elusive "Grendel" in Beowulf to the colossal creatures of kaiju films like Godzilla, we will examine a diverse range of texts and films that have sent shivers down the spines of audiences across cultures for generations. As we explore these haunting and mysterious works, we will delve into questions such as: How have historical fears and anxieties been represented? Whom do we classify as "monstrous" and why? How do these representations either mirror or challenge prevailing cultural norms? And since real monsters don't exist, what are we actually afraid of?
Teaching Method
Seminar style, discussion based; small group exercises.
Evaluation Method
Participation, two short analytical papers, final exam.
Class Materials (Required)
Paperback editions of the novels (and one narrative poem) will be available for purchase at Norris or any other major book retailer. All other media will be made available through NU Library Course Reserves. The novels are as follows: Seamus Heaney, Beowulf (ISBN: 978-0393320978); Mary Shelley, Frankenstein: The 1818 Text (ISBN: 978-0143131847); Octavia E. Butler, Fledgling (ISBN: 978-0446696166).
Class Attributes
Advanced Expression
Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area