Humanities and Fine Arts 191HFA31 - FYS-Myth&FairytaleReimgndStage

This seminar focuses on the traditional stories of myth and fairytale, the retellings of which appear to be having a resurgence in popular culture. By examining the presentation of these tales onstage (including by the eponymous Disney), we raise questions that are frequently overlooked when regarding material often seen as "childish": How do these stories assert social norms? What is the value of myths and fairytales being experienced collectively? In what way are these tales demonstrating life rituals or rites of passage? How can modern retellings use classic tales to subvert earlier messages and make them relevant to today? What does a feminist/queer/cross-cultural version of a myth or fairytale look like? Fairytales are not just for children, and this course examines some of the darker aspects of mythology and fairytales. Their lessons emphasize humanity in all its complexity?brutal, dark, hopeful, beautiful, and yes, even sometimes magical.

Open to first-year Humanities and Fine Arts Exploratory Track students and first-year HFA Majors.