It is often observed that migration is at a historic high. But journalistic accounts tend to recycle old tropes without bringing new insight. This course considers the refugee experience from three very different perspectives in order to arrive at a deeper, more balanced, and holistic understanding. One perspective is that of asylum seekers and refugees themselves. Course readings therefore include the poetry, short stories, and autobiographical writings of the forcibly displaced. A second perspective is that derived from government speeches and documents. A third perspective is provided by intergovernmental organizations that aim to manage migration. How do the metaphors, imagery, narrative tropes, and rhetorical strategies compare across these diverse sources? What gaps in understanding can be filled by considering all three types of sources? Course evaluation will be based on active participation in the seminar, two papers, and a group case study. As a result of taking this course, students will gain a more holistic understanding of international migration; acquire skills in analyzing various discourses; and be able to identify the tensions between how migrants see themselves and how they are seen by others.
Course Requirements:
Student evaluation for this course will be based on participation synchronously during class time, written essays that will be submitted via Canvas within a designated time frame, written responses to questions posed in Canvas discussions, and online presentations.
Intended Audience:
This course is intended for International Studies Majors and Minors. It welcomes online participation. While there will be optional in-person office hours, this course does not require you to be on campus or present in-person. Students will kindly be requested to unmute their video for group discussions.
Class Format:
As a DC (Distance due to COVID) course, all aspects of this course will be fully compatible with remote online learning. The seminar will be held on Zoom or Blue Jeans in biweekly sessions that require synchronous participation.