ENG 150 – Literature Interprets the World (3 credit hours)

Introduction to ways literary artists shape experience, focusing on one topic or selected topics; primarily discussion; writing intensive. P or C-WRI 110, WRI 111, or exemption therefrom. (D)

Authors, inventors, and explorers have long pursued the possibilities of dreams. Dreams are a powerful resource for the human imagination. They are our most compelling ambitions; they make feats of innovation possible. Dreams also connect us to our deepest reserves. Some dreams are dangerous. Modern history’s darkest tragedies have been about people chasing the wrong kinds of dreams or the corrupted dream.

As we will see, dreams are productions of the mind. By examining dreams we are investigating the structures of perception.

In this short course we will look at the ways dreams animate modern literature and film. Students will be introduced to magical realism, utopian & dystopic fiction, psychological literature, and avant-garde film. We will also consider feature films like Perfect Blue, Donnie Darko, Mulholland Drive, and Shutter Island to learn more about what dreams reveal. Class requirements include scheduled reading, short reflections, and discussion.

Second Session Course:

• 12:30PM-2:00PM – Online – Synchronous, Madera