Non-violence and Conflict in Social Justice Literature
This course introduces students to theories of literature and social justice, exploring questions such as: What is literature? What is social justice? In what ways can literary texts grapple with questions of social justice? And, how might they reinforce or challenge dominant ideologies? Students will read selections from representative texts, ranging from Martin Luther King’s speeches to Trevor Noah’s recent autobiography, and produce essays that prompt them to experiment with, and improve upon, their critical-thinking and writing skills.
Instructor: Dr. Patricia Hopkins, English
Play Right, Playwright
What makes a story a script? When is a script ready for the stage? This course introduces students to the art of writing for the stage. Building from simple scenarios, scores and situations, students will develop a playwright’s sense of dramatic form and theatrical expression. They will learn to think and write creatively about principles of structure, action dialogue, spectacle and character. Students will also participate in play readings and produce an original 10-minute play of their own.
Instructor: Dr. Tanya Sweet, Theater and Dance