This course explores the history, theory, and methods of literary journalism, an increasingly popular form of nonfiction writing characterized by immersive investigations of the social landscape. Combining the research and reporting practices of standard journalism with literary techniques typical of fictional narration, literary journalism crafts actual events into engaging stories with impact and staying power.

We will explore the origins of the genre in eighteenth-century England, its connections with other literary and journalistic forms, and its consistent role as a catalyst of social change. We’ll survey exemplary works by acclaimed literary journalists over the past three centuries. At the same time, we’ll attend carefully to the distinctive--and constantly evolving--characteristics of the genre and the features that have made it so effective in encouraging critical reflection on the status quo.

Additional topics to be considered include the boundaries between fact and fiction in subjective narration, the history of genre hierarchies that assign more prestige to fiction than nonfiction stories, and the ethical issues that arise in writing about other people’s lives. While not intended primarily as a writing workshop or a “how-to” course, the class will provide opportunities for aspiring journalists to experiment with techniques and practice skills essential to the craft.

This course satisfies the following CURRENT English major/minor requirement: NOT APPLICABLE

This course satisfies the following NEW English major/minor requirements: Foundations & Methods (200-level), Regions: Americas, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Time: 18th & 19th Centuries, Time: Contemporary/Modern

Course Requirements:

Course requirements include regular attendance and participation, timely completion of readings, and occasional in-class quizzes. Students choose among a variety of additional assignment options, including presentations, writing exercises, podcast production, and an exam, enabling them to tailor the course experience to meet individual learning goals.

Intended Audience:

This course is intended for undergraduates at any level with an interest in journalism, creative nonfiction, and/or literary history.