Reasoning & Writing in the College:

CAS 105 Summer 2003

Monsters and Misfits in Film and Literature
April Miller, Department of English
MWR 1:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. CRN: 10110
CLARC 108A
**No Audits**
Session A-6wk (May 19 - June 27)

In this course, we will consider how the cultural prevalence of monsters relies on their position as symbols of fear and anxiety. We will also consider how monsters expose the dangers of social constructions of the normal, the good, and the beautiful. As this course aims to introduce students to the concepts of monstrosity and abjection from an interdisciplinary approach, we will analyze representations of monstrosity in nonfiction, fiction, poetry and film. By examining numerous narrative forms, students will develop the critical reading, writing and research skills necessary to construct a diverse portfolio of writing, including an extended argumentative essay and a final research paper. Through peer evaluation, self-evaluation, editing seminars, and on-going revision, students will strengthen this portfolio throughout the term. Assessment will emphasize the importance of the revision process and participation in class discussion and writing workshops. The goal is to have students emerge from this class as more confident writers who are capable of handling the diverse tasks in composition they will be asked to perform as both students and professionals.