SEM: Heroes Myths

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

What does it mean to be a hero? What distinguishes the hero from the saint? How does heroism play itself out in contemporary society? Through examining literary works from the Middle Ages to the 21st Century – as well as theoretical texts – this course will explore the nature of heroism and the connections between the concepts of heroism and “performance.” Readings will include works by authors such as J. O. Urmson, J. Campbell, F. Savater, R.W. Emerson, J. Ortega y Gasset, and R. Schechner. Also analyzed will be films by R. Rosellini (The Flowers of St. Francis), A. Kurosawa (Kagemusha), F. Zimmerman (High Noon), and R. Attenborough (Ghandi).