English 219BH - Topics in Creative Writing: 'Beyond the Hero's Journey: On Indigenous Forms and Reimaginings'

In this class, we will read, discuss, and write into narrative shapes outside Freytag's Pyramid or the Western "hero's journey" with a particular emphasis on the works of Indigenous, historically marginalized, and queer writers. We will look to the traditions, modalities, political movements and artifacts of the natural world that continue to influence contemporary, decolonial, and cross-genre storytelling. Sample authors include: Elissa Washuta, No'u Revilla, Layli Long Soldier, Xavier Navarro Aquino, Kristiana Kahaukawila, Tommy Orange, and others. Throughout the semester, writers will be encouraged to interrogate the objects, animals, climates, and structural systems that inform their own lives. All genres welcome!

Prereq: ENGL-201 or equivalent.