Assignments
Participation: This seminar places emphasis on active and thoughtful discussion, both in class and on the course website. Students are expected to attend each class, arrive on time, and contribute to class and the course website. Your participation grade will be judged on the basis of your grasp of the key arguments of the assigned texts, including the films, your respect for other class members’ and my points of view (as shown in the way you respond to others’ ideas in class and on the website), and your attentiveness to the discussions.
Course Website Entries: By midnight each Sunday, you are to post an analytical response of 250-300 words (equals 1 typed double-spaced page) on the reading assignment for Tuesday’s class. You are also required to read each other’s entries and comment in response prior to class. In addition, the website is a good place to alert us to articles and other information on doomsday themes.
Final Essay: This 15 page analytical essay should focus on a particular Doomsday phenomenon in American culture, taking into account our texts and discussions while also conducting further research into the topic. Topics might include analysis of apocalyptic film, investigation of a specific event, such as Jonestown or Aum Shinrykyo, or examination of an ideological pattern, such as the apocalyptic elements of nationalistic or terrorist violence. Be sure the overall essay has a clear thesis and bibliography of references. Approval of your topic and use of 3-4 course sources and 3-4 outside sources required. Please see the recommended reading list.
Creative Project: With this project you are to provide an alternative format to further illuminate your Final Essay topic. Creative Projects will be put on the course website by the final exam meeting. Suggestions include but are not limited to: a documentary interview, short story, or work of visual art. Include a 1-page Project Statement that indicates your analytic objectives and creative choices. The sources for your Final Essay should be apparent in the presentation of this project.
Grading
- In-class participation: 20%
- Course website entries: 30%
- Final Essay and Creative Project: 25% each for a total of 50%
