WELCOME TO MYTH AND MIND. In this course we will explore foundational stories, creation and destruction tales, myths that explore not just how things came to be, but more importantly how we should be in our world. Our first reading, Damascus Nights, is a frame narrative, stories within a story. This week we will explore the hero-journey, and think about what makes a myth.

MONDAY

Introduction to the course via a graphic, short narrative, "The Day I Disappeared."
HW: Write a shorter-than-one page analysis of the story's meaning. Typed, and due tomorrow. Be prepared to read from it in class.

TUESDAY

Reading the written analysis aloud. We will also review the course expectations and sign up your email addresses for google-doc purposes.
HW: Review the chapters wherein Salim's seven friends narrate their stories.

WEDNESDAY

The hero journey, an overview. What is mythology? Lecture, notes.
HW: Choose ONE of the seven tales. Tomorrow in class, you will begin an analysis of that chapter, in the context of the hero journey.

THURSDAY

Modern Syria: an historical overview. Also, beginning your hero journey analysis of the DN chapter.
HW: Begin writing your analysis of the assigned Damascus Nights chapter.

FRIDAY

Beginning Joseph Campbell's Power of Myth, the Moyers-Campbell interviews.
HW: Analysis of DN is due Monday.