Moth to the Flame: Modern Satire and Dystopia

Satirical and dystopian works often illuminate pressing issues, present humorous scenarios, and/or portray fantastic visions of post-apocalyptic worlds.  While we are drawn to the fictional escape these works can provide, through them we are also encouraged to question our own realities and ponder both the best and worst humanity has to offer. In this course, we will read a variety of works, including Herland, Fight Club, and This Perfect Day, and watch films such as Idiocracy, The Meaning of Life, and V for Vendetta to examine the function of satire in modern times. We will explore themes of identity, gender, and power. Through our exploration of the topic, students will develop their research skills and refine their oral communication skills. This course fulfills the FYS and HU general education requirements.