Studies in Literature and Film (386-0-20)

Topic

Rebels and Rule Breakers: Subversive Coming-of-Age

Instructors

Laura MacKay Hansen

Meeting Info

555 Clark B01: Mon, Wed 12:30PM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

It's fun to break the rules, and rebelling is a fundamental aspect of growing up, but some transgressions have more serious consequences than others, particularly for those who do not have the option of second or third chances. How do we navigate parental or societal expectations that do not match with our own dreams or desires? How do friendships shape us, and how is betrayal a part of growing up? How do gender, race, sexual identity, and class play a role in narrowing a person's choices? In this seminar, we will look at a variety of coming-of-age stories dealing with the formation of identity and rebellion. We'll also think about the ways in which speculative genres, such as dystopian fiction or animated fantasy, might be used to reframe what it means to come of age. Readings for the course will include My Brilliant Friend, Elena Ferrante's Neapolitan novel of complex female friendship, and Never Let Me Go, Kazuo Ishiguro's dystopian elegy. Films may include: Ladybird (Greta Gerwig), The Virgin Suicides (Sophia Coppola),The Perks of Being a Wallflower (Stephen Chbosky), Moonrise Kingdom (Wes Anderson), Call Me By Your Name (Luca Gudagnino), Moonlight (Barry Jenkins), and the animated fantasy Spirited Away (Hazuo Miyazaki).

Class Attributes

Advanced Expression
Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area