The Rise of Modern Golf, 1860 to Present

Catalog description

Aristocratic pastime or the people's game? This course will examine the emergence of golf as an amateur and professional sport between 1860 and the present. Our topics will span the eras of Harry Vardon, Bobby Jones, Walter Hagen, Babe Didrickson Zaharias, and Glenna Collett in the first half of the 20th century; of Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino, Charlie Sifford, Mickey Wright, Patty Berg, and Nancy Lopez in the second half of the 20th century; and of Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Annika Sorenstam, and several current stars of the LPGA Tour. Students will read and discuss historical, sociological, and literary texts, and view several feature and documentary films. The course will be centered on student-led group discussions of required reading and viewing assignments (to be completed in advance of class). I will lecture only infrequently. Student class leaders will be expected to raise thoughtful questions for the class to discuss about our required readings and other assignments. For grading, there will be two or three essay exams, the exact format to be announced. I will also take into strong consideration the quality of each student's oral contributions to class discussion, as well as their preparation and performance when they are assigned to lead class discussions. Advance preparation by each student for every class is essential, as is very regular attendance.