Reading and composition course based on works of Russian and other Slavic writers, either written in English or translated into English. As students develop strategies of writing and interpretation, they will become acquainted with a particular theme in Russian and/or Slavic literatures and their major voices. R5A satisfies the first half of the Reading and Composition requirement, and R5B satisfies the second half.

What makes a criminal? What thoughts and experiences motivate antisocial behavior? Is a murderer born or raised? What are the ethics of writing about violent crime? From murder mysteries and crime novels to true crime podcasts and psychological thrillers, humans have often sought the answer to these questions in works of fiction and creative non-fiction. In this class we will explore the ways in which literature, film, and other forms of storytelling have attempted to enter and understand the mind of a criminal, and the ways in which we, as readers and viewers can make sense of them. We will cross boundaries of culture, medium, and genre to explore the ways readers and writers understand and imagine the criminal mind and will think about the methods through which art can influence, illuminate and/or distort that understanding. Readings will include works by authors such as Lev Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky, Richard Wright, Truman Capote and Dorothy Hughes. Students will also watch the film Taxi Driver and listen to several episodes of popular true crime podcasts.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of the “A” portion of the Reading & Composition requirement or its equivalent. Students may not enroll in nor attend R1B/R5B courses without completing this prerequisite.

Requisites

• Previously passed an R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Previously passed an articulated R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Score a 4 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature. Score a 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Language and Composition. Score of 5, 6, or 7 on the International Baccalaureate Higher Level Examination in English.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills