| Title: | A Murderous History |
|---|---|
| Course Section Number: | HIS-300-02 |
| Department: | History |
| Description: | What can a murder case tell us about a society and its culture? Does the victim matter in different ways to different societies? Do trials always convict the culprit? Who does the law protect, ultimately? Do forms of communication shape public opinions of crime and criminality? In this seminar, students will read about famous (or infamous) murder cases drawn from European, British, and American history. The criminal cases covered in class will address the sensational nature of crimes of strangulation and dismemberment, but they will also delve into the social, political, and cultural interpretations of those crimes. From Jack the Ripper to the O.J. Simpson trial, students will read about policing, crime, and criminal activity in the 19th and 20th centuries. The course will encourage students to think critically about the cultural and societal forces that have shaped the ways in which murder has been understood and punished. Key themes include: The definitions and understandings of murder in the 19th and 20th centuries The rise of forensic science and its impact on investigations The relationship between murder and broader social and cultural trends, including urbanization, immigration, and class struggles The representation of murder in literature, film, and media This course is good for students interested in history, criminology, media, and cultural change. Coursework will include several short writing assignments and a final project where students will use English-language newspapers to research a little-known murder and write about its historical context, from initial report and social reactions, to legal resolution. |
| Credits: | 1.00 |
| Start Date: | August 23, 2023 |
| End Date: | December 16, 2023 |
| Meeting Information: |
08/24/2023-12/14/2023 Lecture Tuesday, Thursday 02:40PM - 03:55PM, Baxter Hall, Room 212
|
| Faculty: | Rhoades, Michelle |
| Requisite Courses: | One previous course in History |
Course Status
| Section Name/Title | Status | Dept. | Capacity |
Enrolled/ Available/ Waitlist |
|---|