“When history is translated into myth, the complexities of social and historical experiences are simplified and compressed into the action of representative individuals or heroes.” –Richard Slotkin

The Western is the richest and most enduring genre of American film.  It is both formula film and source of great innovation.  Beginning with Reconstruction, this program will examine the important connections between the Western and the tale of expansion (economic, geographic, ecological, cultural) and violent conquest that is the American frontier myth.  In addition to diverse short readings, the primary texts for this program will be Richard Slotkin’s Gunfighter Nation, James McPherson’s Into the West, and The Western by David Lusted.  This is a partial online program. Students will need access to a comprehensive source for DVD rentals (such as Netflix, Amazon.com, Deep Discount DVD, etc.) and will be using Moodle for required online seminars.  Here is a draft of the program syllabus: WFGsyllabusDRAFT

The program will meet on five Saturdays from 10 am – 6 pm during each summer session:

• FIRST SUMMER SESSION: June 30 and July  7, 14, 21, & 28

A required introductory class will be held on:

• Tuesday, June 26, from 5 – 8 pm

Classroom: SEM II, A1105