SCFC673
Thomas More and Utopia (Seminar: Reading and discussion intensive)
This short work of fiction, written in 1516 in the wake of reports about the new discoveries in America, presents an island whose inhabitants have found the recipe for perfect happiness. Interpretations have pointed to inspirational models ranging from the Gospels and Plato's Republic to an anticipation of the classless society of modern Marxism. More's Utopia has been seen as a jeu d'esprit or as a blueprint for radical political reform.
We will explore the work in discussions based on More’s text. In the end, we might be even be inspired to construct our own utopias.
Please note that enrolment in this course is open to all ages.
| Section | Sessions | Dates | Time | Campus | Instructor(s) | Cost | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SCFC673-VA1121 | 6 - Thu | Feb 23–Mar 29 | 12:30–2:20 pm | Van | Peter Bietenholz | $104 | Closed |
You may take this course as part of the following program:
What will I learn?
During this course, we will further examine the following:
- More’s life and place in English history
- Book II of Utopia: The description of the fictional island, the island society, and the island’s institutions
- Book I, the introduction that More wrote after completing Book II
- Some conclusions on the place of Utopia in intellectual history
- Our own ideas of a perfect society and commonwealth
How will I learn?
- Lectures
- Required Reading
- Discussion (may vary from class to class)
- Papers (applicable only to certificate students)
Who should take this course?
This course is for anyone who is interested in learning more about More’s book Utopia, and enjoys participating in class discussions.
How will I be evaluated?
(For certificate students only)
Your instructor will evaluate you based on an essay you will complete at the end of the course. You will receive a grade of “satisfactory” or “unsatisfactory.”
Textbooks and learning materials
The required book, Utopia (by More, 3rd ed., 2010, ISBN: 9780393932461), will be available for purchase at the SFU Vancouver bookstore for $16.00. Some course materials may be available online.