ENG 3804 Fall 2022 Hand

This course examines the complex relationships between word and image in texts ranging from medieval illuminated manuscripts to postmodern graphic novels. We will examine reasons for incorporating images into texts; impacts of graphic representations on audience understanding, meaning, and value of texts; and the interplay between text, image, and culture over the centuries and into our current moment. This class will examine a variety of textual formats (manuscript, print, digital), genres, digital databases, and examples of “found” illustrated texts from everyday life.

More specifically, this course will focus on representations of the natural world – that is, the nonhuman beings that surrounds us – in illustrated texts from bestiaries, herbals, fables, emblems, and scientific treatises, to children’s literature, memes, graphic novels, and beyond. We will examine a range of media, and our discussions will be grounded in critical readings in textual studies as well as ecocriticism and animal studies. This focus will enable students to build a strong foundation of critical thinking skills and knowledge and to achieve course objectives, with potential for application of acquired knowledge and skills in a range of contexts.

Meets the Genre requirement for LMC.

Course Pre-Requisites: ENG 3803 (recommended)