ENGL 391(S) Imagining Scientists (Same as Environmental Studies 391)
Scientists tell one kind of story about themselves and their work; biographers, historians of science, and science writers tell another; imaginative writers, yet another. In this course, we will explore the literary elements of some narratives by and about scientists. No formal training in science is required, although an interest in science would be helpful. Readings will include poetry, drama, fiction, memoir, reviews, and scientific works, all focused on two crucial texts written roughly a century apart: Charles Darwin's The Origin of Species and James Watson's The Double Helix.
Format: one long discussion class/seminar each week. Requirements: active class participation, class presentations, and weekly writing assignments, including two 5- to 7-page papers (one during each half of the semester) for class presentation, and, during the weeks you're not presenting a major paper, short written responses to the reading.
Prerequisites: a 100-level English course, except for 150. Enrollment limit: 15 (expected: 15). Preference to English majors and Environmental Studies concentrators.
(1700-1900 or Post-1900)
Hour: A. BARRETT