Banned Books

When are reading and writing dangerous activities? Who gets to decide? And what are the consequences, for individuals and societies? In this seminar, we will explore works of fiction, poetry, autobiography and children’s literature that have been banned, redacted or put on trial in the modern period; and think critically about the ideas of decency, protection and security that underlie such censorship. As we consider the role book bans play in public life today, we will explore anti-censorship practices in the arts, journalism, law and grassroots advocacy.