Myth, Magic, and Movies
PSYC 111
Spring 2009
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01
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We will explore how the mythic is made and what purposes myth and magic serve in modern culture. Guided by classic psychoanalytic works and more modern texts, we will seek to understand both the conscious and unconscious power of myths. We will explore heroic and anti-heroic narratives, all with an eye to uncovering the ideological uses of fantasy in post-modern capitalism. Novels by J.K. Rowling, Gloria Naylor, Louisa May Alcott, and Ralph Ellison will be read. Films will include The Matrix and a sampling of the Harry Potter series. |
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Essential Capabilities:
Interpretation, Writing
Writing: semi-weekly short papers in response to issues raised in class.
10-20 page final paper or project in which more complex issues can be raised and interpretations can be made.
Interpretation: The human sciences with their hermeneutic techniques are at the core of this course. We will explore various interpretive methods: including comparative mythology, hermeneutic psychology, and marxist sociology. We will look closely at how books and movies produce widely differing fantasy phenomena.
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
SBS PSYC |
| Course Format: Seminar | Grading Mode: Student Option |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: None |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: None |
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Past Enrollment Probability: Not Available |
| SECTION 01 | | Special Attributes: FYI |
Major Readings: Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore
J.K. Rowling, HARRY POTTER, Vols. 1-7; R. Ellison, INVISIBLE MAN; L.M. Alcott, WORK; G. Naylor, MAMA DAY; C.G. Jung, TWO ESSAYS ON ANALYTICAL PSYCHOLOGY; J. Campbell, HERO WITH A THOUSAND FACES.
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Examinations and Assignments:
Seven one-page response papers. One final project. |
Additional Requirements and/or Comments:
This class has a very heavy reading load. It would be good if you had read the HARRY POTTER books before. Only one Wesleyan Univ. course can be taken as non-graded towards the major. |
| Instructor(s): Steele,Robert S. Times: ..T.... 01:10PM-04:00PM; Location: JUDDB6; |
| Total Enrollment Limit: 18 | | SR major: X | JR major: X | | |
| Seats Available: 0 | GRAD: X | SR non-major: X | JR non-major: X | SO: X | FR: 18 |
| Drop/Add Enrollment Requests | | | | | |
| Total Submitted Requests: 6 | 1st Ranked: 4 | 2nd Ranked: 0 | 3rd Ranked: 1 | 4th Ranked: 0 | Unranked: 1 |
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