Behind every name there is a story. In this course, we will explore those stories, learning the history and meaning of the labels that we affix to people, places, and things. We will pay particular attention to the power, responsibility, and consequences that come with naming and re-naming. We'll examine recent controversies on college campuses involving the names of buildings, monuments, mascots, local flora, and landmarks. We will also study how the producers of all kinds of things–from poems to consumer products–use metaphor and neologism to refresh our understanding of the familiar, introduce us to the unfamiliar, and name the unnameable. In addition, we'll explore how names and name changes can frame political discourse, sway opinion, influence behavior, and alter history.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 15

Prerequisites: None. Open to First-Years only.

Degree Requirements: WFY - First Year Writing

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall; Spring

Notes: No letter grades given.