ENG 497 Seminar in English Literature: Science Fiction Studies
This senior-level seminar will begin with a scholarly study of Phillip K.
Dick, one of the most important American authors of science fiction. In
the second part of the course, each student will select a well-known
science fiction author as the subject of an intensive 15-20 page scholarly
essay. All students will be required to take responsibility for presenting
their work, both written and verbal, during each class period. There will
be frequent short writing assignments and oral reports in the early part
of the course and a series of drafts and presentations of the final essay,
during the second half. One highlight of the course will be a visit to the
offices of a major science fiction journal and a discussion with the
editors about current scholarship. Since the subject is futuristic,
students will be encouraged to draw upon digital technologies as a means
of presenting their research. Class open to junior and senior English
majors only. This course is offered in the fall semester.
Credits: 1