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Dealing with the themes of climate change, biodiversity, environmental degradation and resilience, this intensive seminar explores the ways in which observing and writing reflects the human engagement with the environment. We will use Essen and surrounds as the context for observing and writing about nature. This practical engagement will involve short writing exercises, keeping a nature journal and/or blogging, analyzing texts and going on excursions to the botanical gardens or zoo. We will also introduce the concepts of ecocriticism and ‘cli-fi’ (climate change fiction) and the effects of environmental degradation on the refugee crisis. Primary readings in English may include works (and excerpts) by Clare, Thoreau, Muir, Mabey, Carson, Wilson, Abbey, Cocker, Foster, and Kingsolver.
Primary readings will need to be completed prior to the start of each session. Some texts will be made available in electronic form but most will need to be purchased. It would also be useful to have access to field guides dealing with the local area. Assessment for the course will involve class discussion, participation, written essays and oral presentations. |
