Introduction
ENGL 103 B23, Retrospective Globalisms: From Satire to the Western, is a course that offers a deep dive into the world of literature and film. . This course is a unique opportunity for students to analyze and discuss the ways in which different forms of media have contributed to the ongoing dialogue on globalism.
Part I: The Evolution of Globalism
The first part of this course focuses on the evolution of globalism and its representation in literature and film. It delves into the historical context and various forms of globalism, starting from the early Enlightenment era. Students will explore how literature and satire have played a crucial role in shaping and reflecting the perception of globalism through works like Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels.”
1.1. Satire as a Tool for Global Critique
Satire, as a literary and cinematic genre, has been a powerful tool to critique and dissect the complexities of globalism. Through close readings of satirical works such as Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels,” students will examine the ways in which satire has been used to comment on political, social, and cultural issues on a global scale.
1.2. Enlightenment and Global Thought
The Enlightenment period marked a significant shift in global thought. It introduced ideas of reason, progress, and individual rights, which had far-reaching implications on global politics and society. The works of Voltaire and his satirical novella “Candide” will be analyzed to understand how globalism was perceived during this era.
Part II: The Western Genre and Globalism
The second part of the course transitions to a more contemporary setting by examining the Western genre and its engagement with globalism. Westerns often provide a unique lens through which to explore themes of globalization, imperialism, and cultural exchange.
2.1. The Western as a Reflection of Global Expansion
The Western genre, traditionally set in the American frontier, reflects the expansion and exploration of the “Wild West.” This expansion is inherently tied to globalism as it involves the encounters between various cultures, settlers, and indigenous populations. Films like John Ford’s “The Searchers” and Sergio Leone’s “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” will be studied to understand how the Western genre has engaged with globalism.
2.2. The Western and Cultural Exchange
The cultural exchange that occurs in the Western genre is a rich subject of analysis. Students will explore how the interactions between settlers, Native Americans, and Mexican communities in Western films.
Part III: Contemporary Globalism and Literature
The third and final part of the course brings the exploration of globalism into the contemporary world. Students will analyze how contemporary literature and film grapple with the complexities of globalism, including issues related to migration, multiculturalism, and transnational identities.
3.1. Migration and Multiculturalism
The study of contemporary works will enable students to engage with globalism.These texts shed light on the experiences of immigrants and their attempts to reconcile their cultural identities with the globalizing forces around them.
3.2. Transnational Identities
Exploring the concept of transnational identities through works like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “Americanah” and Mohsin Hamid’s “Exit West,”. These texts provide a nuanced understanding of the complexities of contemporary globalism.
Conclusion
ENGL 103 B23: Retrospective Globalisms. From Satire to the Western is a dynamic and thought-provoking course that invites students to critically engage with the concept of globalism. By examining the historical and contemporary representations of globalism in literature and film, students are equipped to grasp