The myth of the American West

How accurate are our images of the American West? We explore the mythology of `the West`, the cowboy hero and the `American Indian`, in different forms and trace the history of the migration west.

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Key course information

Dates
12/01/12 - 29/03/12

Day(s)
Thu

Duration
12 weeks

Time
18:00 - 19:30

Fees
Full fee: £86
Senior fee: £86

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HH321

Availability
This course has finished

No concessionary fees are available as the limit has been reached.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

This course is about the development of the American West and an exploration of the myths that have been produced about the American West.

What topics will we cover?

The American West in fact and myth
The American West from different vantage points
The West in American History
Conquest of the West and its peoples
Cultural Geography of the West
Indian’s view of the West
The West in movies and novels
People, places and characters of the west
Conflicts of Development: Ranching, Farming, Mining
The Environment of the West.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

Critically discuss the fact and fiction of the American West
Discuss the main debates of the development of the American West
Describe the roles of the characters and events of the American West
Analyse “Western” movies and literature for historical perspective.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an `introductory` course and does not assume any previous study or reading although you will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. As with most of our history and current affairs courses, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about new ideas are more important than specific levels of skills.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The class will be delivered through a presentation, accompanied by PowerPoint slides. We will use a variety maps, images, video and text throughout the sessions. Discussion of materials will be encouraged.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

A list of recommended reading material and recommended films will be provided, but this is optional. Please bring pen and paper.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Other courses from the 'American studies' section. Please see the prospectus and/or the City Lit website: www.citylit.ac.uk.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.