UNIV 104EWalt Disney and Modern America

Catalog

WALT DISNEY AND MODERN AMERICA - - - The UNIV 101 & UNIV 104 courses offer a blended course format which includes two primary components, one focusing on the academic topic, taught by a faculty member with the second component devoted to new student transition topics, taught by a professional staff partner instructor. This freshmen seminar course will explore an intriguing intellectual topic, help freshmen hone critical thinking and writing skills, and assist students in making a successful transition to university life. - - - Disney is often synonymous with America or American values. The ubiquity of all things Disney pervades life in the twenty-first century United States. From theme parks to movies, merchandise to education, corporatism to ideology, the influence of the Walt Disney Company and the vision of its founder is undeniable. How did it come to be so? The answer to that question can be found in the American past over the course of the last century. This course explores the interrelationship between Disney the person, Disney the brand, and modern American history. Unsurprisingly, Disney generates both blissful happiness and scathing critique. We will critically engage with these and other sentiments about Disney through readings, discussion, and writing. NOTE: All UNIV 101 and UNIV 104 courses are restricted to students in their FIRST SEMESTER at the University. Students MAY NOT register for more than one UNIV 101 or UNIV 104 course.