This course will examine representations of figures not considered human, focusing on the nonhuman animal, with attention to the monster and the machine. We will analyze the verbal and visual techniques with which these figures are depicted, the social and political concerns they address, and the tenuous boundary between human and nonhuman. Authors, filmmakers, and critics may include Bierce, Cronenberg, Dunbar, Kafka, London, Martel, Moore, Poe, Ritvo, Scott, Wells, and Sewell.

This course will examine some key works of Irish literature and culture to understand issues central to the history and politics of Ireland, including colonialism, nationalism and national identity, gender relations, the politics of the Irish language, and sectarianism. We will also explore how the history of Ireland has led to particular literary and cultural forms. In addition to viewing films and examples of visual culture, we will read authors such as Swift, Edgeworth, Lady Wilde, Yeats, and Joyce.

This course examines literary representations ofworlds and world-making. We will explore how major British authorsinterpret the idea of the world, as well as how they construct fictionalworlds of complexity and beauty. We will consider how the notion of'world' is defined in relation to the cosmos, nature, human society,empire, and travel. A consistent theme will be the depiction of other ornew worlds, suggested by places that are remote, abstract, or imaginary.Readings may include Utopia, The Tempest, Paradise Lost, Gulliver's Travels, Robinson Crusoe, and The Rime of the Ancient Mariner.

From Victorian periodicals to blockbuster movies and steampunk, Sherlock Holmes has remained current. Nineteenth century detective literature was popular entertainment at the same time that it took on the anxieties and hopes of its historical moment, including those around capital, otherness, authority, and theories of knowledge. We will focus on Arthur Conan Doyle and the nineteenth century, with tangents to influences and afterlives.

In this course we to seek to achieve clarity and precision of expression within a discussion of complex questions. Past semesters' topics include: The role of education in society; the relationship between religion, culture, and nature; and the use of maps in ordering the world. In addition to the academic content, the course focus on the writing and revising process, academic research and argumentation, and the nature and purpose of academic discourse. This course is intended for students whose native language is not English and who would like to refine their writing and speaking skills.

This course examines various strategies of literary representation through a variety of genres, including such traditional literary forms as the novel, lyric poetry, drama, and autobiography, as well as other cultural forms, such as film. Particular attention is given to student writing; students are expected to write a variety of short essays on selected topics. Though the themes of specific sections may vary, all sections seek to introduce students to the terminology of literary and cultural discourse. Please note that this course is a requirement for all English majors.

This course examines various strategies of literary representation through a variety of genres, including such traditional literary forms as the novel, lyric poetry, drama, and autobiography, as well as other cultural forms, such as film. Particular attention is given to student writing; students are expected to write a variety of short essays on selected topics. Though the themes of specific sections may vary, all sections seek to introduce students to the terminology of literary and cultural discourse. Please note that this course is a requirement for all English majors.

This course examines various strategies of literary representation through a variety of genres, including such traditional literary forms as the novel, lyric poetry, drama, and autobiography, as well as other cultural forms, such as film. Particular attention is given to student writing; students are expected to write a variety of short essays on selected topics. Though the themes of specific sections may vary, all sections seek to introduce students to the terminology of literary and cultural discourse. Please note that this course is a requirement for all English majors.

In this class we will use pictures of mythological characters and scenes as inspiration for a series of exercises which focus on the different components of creative prose: description, characterization, dialogue, point of view, scene, and dramatic action. We will also devote a week to reading and writing poetry based on mythic themes. The exercises will serve as a basis for a flight into your own myth-making, and the final result will be a complete short story that reflects both your engagement with myths of the past and the creation of a 'mythic' world that is entirely your own.

This course offers practice in writing various kinds of narrative. Assignments emphasize clarity, concision, and creativity. Exercises lead to longer work, sketches, poems or short stories. Students hone critical as well as writing skills. Student papers are discussed in class, along with selected works by published authors.The crafting of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. Readings by established authors within the three genres will be included, along with in-class discussions and critique sessions of student work.