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
Semester Offered
Offer With sufficient demand