Revised 04/2014

HUM 218 - Survey of Horror (3 CR.)

Course Description

Surveys and analyzes the horror genre, focusing on the psychological, anthropological, and historical background of monsters. Acquaints students with recurring horror themes in literature, art, and popular culture from around the world. Lecture 3 hours, Total 3 hours per week

General Course Purpose

Provides students with the opportunity to explore the horror genre from a number of perspectives, while developing reading, writing and critical thinking skills.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Fluency in Standard American English. Recommend proficiency in reading and writing at English 111 level

Course Objectives

Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:

• Recognize the role of horror in society
• Understand the changing appeal of horror
• Identify horror motifs and devices through time, from ancient times to today
• Comprehend the role of horror in art, literature, music and popular culture, worldwide

Major Topics to Be Included

• Horror variety: ancient mythology, natural world (dragons, sea monsters, etc.), shape shifters,
• Dracula, Satan and demons, the monster within, and science gone awry
• Horror's history: the anthropological, religious and mythological roots of the genre.
• Horror's appeal: from childhood to adulthood, around the world with an emphasis on psychological
• and sociological explanations for that appeal
• Horror as a device in art, literature, film, music and popular culture