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CS92PROD
Myth, Magic, and Movies
PSYC 111
Spring 2010
Section: 01  

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, Alice Walker, and Ralph Ellison will be read. Films will include The Color Purple and the Harry Potter series.

Essential Capabilities: Interpretation, Writing
Writing: semi-weekly short papers in response to issues raised in class.
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.
Credit: 1 Gen Ed Area Dept: SBS PSYC
Course Format: SeminarGrading Mode: Student Option
Level: UGRD Prerequisites: None
Fulfills a Major Requirement for: None
Past Enrollment Probability: Not Available

Last Updated on MAR-28-2024
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