3. +
Course Emphasis
In this course we will read, analyze and evaluate a number of
selections of mythology and folklore. We will be comparing and
contrasting the mythological traditions not only across cultures
but also across time. We will be looking at the impact of
mythology and folklore on various cultures in terms of beliefs,
values, behaviors, literature, art, and trends. We will be reading
about heroes and tricksters, incest and cannibalism, fairies and
witches, ghosts and spirits, quests and wars, creation and
destruction. We will be ending the quarter with presentations
about superheroes of your choice, as you show us how
superheroes (and/or villains) are built upon classic myth,
legend, and folklore elements. It’s a lot of fun because in many
ways, our myths rule us, tease us, inform us, entertain us and
shock us. We don’t hold back in this class. Myths are about
the darker and the lighter parts of our lives and our psyches.
4. + Website:
http://hubbardmythandfolklore.wordpress.com/
In order to do the homework, you must establish an account. To make your own FREE Word
Press account, go to wordpress.com and click on the large, orange button that says, “Get started
here.” The system will walk you through a series of steps that will allow you to set up your own
user-friendly Word Press blog. If you don't want a blog, you can signup for just a username. You
can also register through Facebook. Make sure you sign in with YOUR Word Press username
before you post on our class page so you get credit for your work.
If you prefer not to use your own name, you may use a pseudonym. Please email me your
username if it is significantly different from your real name.
If you cannot establish your website and username, please come to my office hours as soon as
possible, and I will help you with the process. Much of our work will take place online, so
establishing this connection is mandatory.
5. + REQUIRED TEXTS
World Mythology: Donna Rosenberg.
Third Edition
Classic Fairy Tales
Edited by Maria Tatar
6. +
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Assigned Reading (see list)
Quizzes 50 points (Varying points for each)
Midterm 30 points
Participation 25 points
Group Presentation 25 points
Final Essay 40 points
Final Exam 30 points
8. +
Important: assignments and dates
Homework:
Maybe it’s hard to get the reading done for a class, but if you
come without having done it, you can’t participate. I will remind
you about the homework assignments for each class at the end
of the class. If you are asked to print something up, do it! You
should not be reading off your phone. You need a hard copy in
class. I don’t allow texting in class, so phones should be off.
Don’t go outside to use a phone either. You will also be getting
quizzes to make sure you keep up with all reading. We do a lot
of group discussion in this class, so come prepared to
participate. If you miss a class, you can go to the website and
find the number of the class presentation that you missed.
9. + Class rules
Classes run more smoothly if we follow some general rules. I will
follow them too.
No texting in class
Computers only for the purpose of taking notes please.
No cell phones on in class, no ringing and no answering during
class time.
If you have an unusual emergency, let me know.
If you have an emergency situation and you need to leave early,
let me know before class; otherwise, I’ll expect you to be there
for the entire class.
10. +
Almost there…..
Please attend every day during the first week or I will
assume that you have dropped. When people are
trying hard to add, I want to try and give away empty
spaces while I can. Attendance is also important
because you have to be here to participate, an
important part of the grade.
Finally, Welcome! I'm looking forward to exploring
mythology and folklore with you this quarter. I'm
finding the reading exciting and thought provoking
and I hope you will too. I know
I will learn a lot from you, and I appreciate the
opportunity to share what I know and have learned.
11. +
Class activity
Get into a group with three or four people (preferably people
you don’t know.
Learn your names and then make lists of the following:
What are the characteristics that make up a hero/heroine?
Who are your favorite
fictional heroes?
12. + Homework: Due Sept. 25
Sign onto the website: Read the instructions and follow them
carefully. We don’t get to make many copies for students so I
have to rely on you to get and print information from the
website. You will also need to refer to the site for missed class
information and updated information.
Get World Mythology and read the following reading:
Rosenberg:
pp. 82-88 The Creation of Titan and the Gods
pp. 94-99 Demeter and Persephone
