Open Eyes, Open Minds: New Perspectives on Understanding

Single Semester Course

How can a poem, a graphic novel, or a book of philosophy affect us just as strongly as traditional literature? What affects us besides the text in a story? What is the “invisible lens” through which we interpret what we read and learn? What do we learn when we break the rules?

In this class, we will explore alternate modes and perspectives for storytelling and learning. Through unusual and unconventional sources, we will see and hear how a change of format will change how we tell a story and how it is received. We will explore how our perspective can grow even on topics we already understand well. By the end of the semester, students will teach the class on a topic of their own expertise. Sources will include short novels, short stories, poetry, personal essays, graphic novels, and films.