The Craft of Writing

This course is organized around the theme of truth and falsity. We will try to determine whether or not there are such things as absolute facts, or if instead our society is based on contingent beliefs that are subject to constant change and reevaluation. To investigate these themes, we will engage in a survey of key philosophical, theoretical, legal, and literary texts. These texts will show that some theorists are adamant about determining the "Truth," while others hold a deep cynicism about society’s rules and regulations. Our course will help you think about your own position within this age-old discourse.  We will read one novel, watch one film, and read excerpts from philosophers and theorists such as Plato, Marx, Nietzsche, Foucault, Derrida, Butler, Holmes, and others.  We will also read several short U.S. Supreme Court decisions. This interdisciplinary approach will give you a taste of what we do in the Rhetoric Department. In addition, this course aims to help you develop and master your analytical writing skills and to introduce you to intensive research methodologies. We will engage in close readings and analytical discussions of the  texts, but we will also devote a significant portion of our time to analyzing and practicing the key steps in the writing process. At the end of the semester, you will have the necessary tools to produce top-notch academic essays.