Mar 29, 2024  
2013-2014 Official General Catalog 
    
2013-2014 Official General Catalog [Archived Catalog]

HIS 180 - Utopia: American Visions of the Good Society


Examines the functions of the Utopian Impulse throughout American History by examining a series of thought experiments/or actual experimental communities.  To include comparative analysis of various American utopian writers such as Edward Bellamy, C.P. Gilman and W. W. Wagar etc.  Consideration will also be given to such experimental communities as the Shakers, the Oneida Perfectionists, the communes of the 1960s, etc.

Credits: 3
Hours
3 Class Hours
Course Profile
Learning Outcomes of the Course:

Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to:

1.  Describe the general nature of utopian ideas and practices.
2.  Discuss the utopian impulse in American history.
3.  Examine experimental communities such as the Shakers, the Owenites, the Oneida Perfectionists, and the communes of the 1960s.
4.  Compare and analyze key works of utopian literature by such authors as Edward Bellamy, Charlotte Perkins Gilman, W. Warren Wager, and others, including their place in American history and culture.