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.

Trips, visions, psychedelic experiences: this course will trace the theme of hallucinations through literature of the 19th and 20th centuries, with some diversions into film, the visual arts, and music. Beginning with early attempts by writers and ending with hallucinations in recent film and literature, this course will focus on a broad treatment of the issue, including novels influenced by epileptic experience, works inspired by experiences under the influence of drugs, hippies and other countercultural figures, dreams, spiritual and religious visions, and more. We will look at contemporary discussions of the topic, including science on altered states of mind, philosophical essays, and real first-hand accounts. Students will be encouraged to explore their own interests in the topic, and the culmination of the course will be a research paper due at the end of the term.

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