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This interdisciplinary seminar will use various works from the canon of Western literature-Homer, Shakespeare, Kafka, and others-as well as American film to explore jurisprudential concerns such as the distinction between justice and revenge, law and illegality, and the limits and purposes of punishment. We will explore the differences and similarities between legal and literary narrative, the origin and nature of law, how law reflects (and whether it should reflect) community norms and moral views. Students will be required to prepare a research paper which they may use to satisfy the upper-class writing requirement, make one or more class presentations, and participate in class discussion. Reading assignments will consist of literary works and commentaries of these works. (3 Credits)
Fall 2017
Robert Westley
Legal History & Jurisprudence
Seminars