FYS 76 Memory and the Self in Graphic Narratives
Graphic narratives have emerged in recent decades as a prominent medium for memoirs. Through the interplay of art and words, creators give form to not only their past experiences but also to events and places they have only imaged or witnessed second-hand. In this course, we will explore the messy interplay between self and other, our memories of things we have experienced, and our memories of things we have heard about second hand. Graphic memoirs illuminate the ways in which our memories are indelibly marked by ourselves, and we will consider the way that drawings and writing reflect the experiences, fears and desires of their creators. We will also examine the ways in which the comics medium, which invites readers to imagine themselves in the panels, has the potential to alter our understanding of ourselves and the worlds we inhabit. Readings may include Maus, Persepolis, Fun Home, Onwards Towards Our Noble Deaths, and Town of Evening Calm, Country of Cherry Blossoms.
Prerequisite
Open only to first year frosh