Over the course of the semester, we will discuss what it means to be human in the 21st century by analyzing science fiction short stories and films from both past and contemporary authors and directors. We will also read several nonfiction pieces, including news stories, to give context to the fictional readings and movies.

During the first half of the semester, we will look at works focused on robotics and artificial intelligence with an eye toward the possible ramifications of giving machines “human” rights or imposing laws to control them, especially if they become self-aware. During the second half of the semester, we will focus on cyborgs by examining how society has already adapted and will have to adapt even more to people who are both human and machine in light of the predictions made by speculative fiction and film.

This course will require considerable reading, writing, and classroom discussion. Students should be aware that some of the texts and films include uncomfortable and controversial subject matter such as prejudice and discrimination, religion, sex, drug use, and violence.

What makes a movie good? Why do some films earn shiny red tomatoes while others splat à la Rotten Tomatoes’ Tomatometer®? In this discussion and analysis-heavy course we will survey a variety of critically acclaimed films while we learn to recognize and interpret the formal techniques and conventions filmmakers use to craft these cinematic spectacles. Our primary focus will be film aesthetics, and we’ll examine closely the relationships that exist between the cinematography, narrative, acting, soundtrack, editing, and so much more; we’ll also examine each film’s social context, cultural significance, and critical reception.

Students should bring to this course the expectations they have of any other 200-level literature course, as we will rely on close reading, analysis, and theory to better understand and appreciate the basics of the medium and the specific genres we encounter this term. Students should also bring snacks.

This course is an introduction to the practice and craft of creative writing. Since it is an introductory course, you will have the opportunity to focus on different genres of creative writing. From the nuts & bolts of fiction to mining your life for material in creative nonfiction to looking at the language of poetry, we will be discussing, writing, and workshopping all genres of creative writing. We will use writing prompts to spark the plot, character, setting, and story. We will have mini-intensive online workshops, including creative nonfiction, poetry, screenwriting, playwriting, and picture book writing. You will get to explore your voices as writers and discover the stories you want to tell. Guest speakers will also drop in from time to time to talk about their work as professional writers.