Africana Studies 322 - Seminar: Black Magic: Africana Encounters with the Paranormal

Seminar: Black Magic

Fall
2025
01
4.00
Crystal Fleming

TU 1:20 PM - 4:00 PM

Smith College
AFR-322-01-202601
Hatfield 201
cfleming@smith.edu
What is the role of magic, supernaturalism and psychic power in the lives of Africana people? This seminar critically interrogates how race, coloniality, sexuality and gender shape the social construction of the paranormal through narratives, representations and belief systems invoked by people of African descent. Drawing upon a diverse range of accounts and interdisciplinary perspectives, the class examines the historical, religious, philosophical, political and literary dimensions of Black spiritualism, divination, ghosts, mediums, psychics, conjurers, witches, shamans, superheroes and alien encounters. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 15. Instructor permission required.

[CE] JR/SR only

Permission is required for interchange registration during the add/drop period only.
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