Folklore of the Supernatural

Catalog description

We will analyze folklore of the supernatural in American culture and related culture areas, with particular attention to oral narration of ghost stories and techniques for collection and analysis of contemporary folk traditions. Students will write two essays and prepare group projects to be presented at the end of the semester. Texts: Goldstein, Grider, and Thomas, Haunting Experiences; Bennett, Alas, Poor Ghost!; Tucker, Haunted Halls; Thomas, Putting the Supernatural in Its Place. Offered regularly.