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Professional Writing and Discussions: Language and Philosophy in "Game of Thrones"
DozentIn: Andrew Jones, B.A., M.Phil.
Veranstaltungstyp: Seminar
Ort: nicht angegeben
Zeiten: Mi. 12:15 - 13:45 (wöchentlich)
Beschreibung: Professional Writing and Discussion classes are designed to allow students – under the guidance of their course instructors – to undertake a more active and independent development of their language skills by applying them to a specific topic area. Ultimately, the central aim of these courses, whatever topic area and skills focus you choose, is to facilitate your transition into a self-sufficient and proficient user of the English language. You will continue to train your productive and receptive language skills, you will further expand your lexico-grammatical knowledge in connection with the specialist language used in the course, and you will acquire supplementary cultural knowledge on English-speaking countries. You will be expected to attend class regularly and contribute actively and intelligently. Furthermore, you will need to complete oral and written tasks during the course of these classes, hold a graded session and submit a final written portfolio.
This particular course is intended for fans of the popular TV show "Game of Thrones" (yes, only the show - George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series of books, on which the show is based, would go far beyond the scope of the 13 sessions available to it!) who are also interested in philosophy. It is imperative that you are able to watch the series and have access to the episodes over the course of the semester as we will be loading them on computers in class. As we will be discussing elements from all eight seasons, there will be spoilers (it is known). The aim of the course is to apply philosophical concepts to the series (e.g. utilitarianism vs. deontology, epistemology, consciousness, personhood, identity, justice and punishment, power, class and social structures, just war theory). We will also examine the language used by the characters in the show.
Trigger warning: this course will contain graphic viewing material and subsequent class discussions on murder, massacres, war, incest, sexual violence, humiliation and many more controversial topics. If these issues are distressing or highly emotionally uncomfortable for you, you might wish to reconsider taking this particular class. Please consult me if you would like to discuss any questions or concerns.
Up to seven spots in the course can be allocated in advance to students who come to one of my office hours on January 30th or February 6th, 13th or 17th (note: email is not an acceptable alternative to this!) and confirm that they (1) are prepared to commit to taking the course and (2) have identified a topic that they would like to investigate for their class session. All other registrations are provisional and will be allocated based on factors such as level of need and semester of study.
