ENGL 3534: Literature and the Environment

This course examines the intersection between literature (fiction, poetry, and non-fiction) and the environment. ENGL 3534 guides students through literary texts as they examine critical environmental issues from local and global perspectives and their impact on the human and natural world. Topics covered may include, but are not limited to, ecology, sustainability, climate change, environmental degradation, globalization, biocentrism, indigenous knowledge, environmental justice, and environmental ethics.

Why take it?

Narrative and story in the form of literature put a personal face on our global environmental crisis, allowing us to viscerally connect with these issues. Through the examination of literary works, this course will demonstrate how students can educate the public on societal issues in a manner that is both engaging and meaningful. By exploring discourse, writing, and communication as modeled by selected authors, and by practicing these skills in papers, presentations, and discussions, students will learn the skills and techniques necessary for communicating knowledge that has the potential to transform lives and communities.

ENGL 3534 fulfills an elective in the following minors:

• Blue Planet
• Ecological Cities
• Ecosystems for Human Well-Being
• Pathways to Sustainability

Requirements

Prerequisite: ENGL 1106 or COMM 1016.

This course fulfills Pathways requirements in Advanced Discourse, Critical Thinking in the Humanities, Ethical Reasoning, and Intercultural and Global Awareness.