The Craft of Writing

M/W/F 6:00-7:00 PM, Dwinelle 209

In this course, we explore the ancient history, art, literature, and material culture of the Middle East as a stage for considering rhetoric from the past in the present. Sparked by a broad exploration of the different facets of ancient civilization, and our means of accessing knowledge of it, students will have an opportunity to engage thoughtfully with specific topics of individual interest. For instance, one might explore: the rhetoric of power and architecture; the rhetoric of the ancient past drawn upon in modern (or even ancient) politics; archaeology and the interpretation of modern identity; the basis and implications of modern figures invoking ancient practices or words, etc. Topic selections will be flexible and interdisciplinary, guided by the course structure, and can involve other areas of the world, including the United States.

The purpose of this course is to strengthen critical writing, thinking, and reading skills. The emphasis is on academic writing in response to thoughtful reading. We will cover techniques in each of these areas. At the end of the course, students will have learned and practiced the skills needed for excellent written presentation of critically considered sources—written, material, or conceptual—in higher education research and beyond.