In this course; we'll examine the influence of religion; culture; and science on monsters throughout history. We’ll look at how we respond to the presence of monsters including alpha predators or other creatures stemming from folklore or reality. Monster-related topics such as genetic engineering; artificial intelligence; epidemics; & invasive species will be analyzed. We'll also focus on the scariest monsters – HUMANS. Through group presentations; designing our own monsters; keeping a journal; and a team trivia final; we'll discuss how racism; anti-immigration; and nuclear fears are expressed through monsters’ portrayal in literature and the media. We’ll talk about the psychology of fear; hopefully partaking in Halloween traditions ranging from pumpkin carving and haunted houses & a field trip to Gettysburg.
Prerequisites
Be in the Honors Program