CoursesThe Discourse of Truth and Reconciliation
WRIT 0021 - 301

The Discourse of Truth and Reconciliation

This course examines the ways in which truth and reconciliation are voiced in the aftermath of grand societal traumas, such as the Rwandan genocide and South African apartheid. The course investigates the kinds of dialogues that arise from times of social rupture in order to understand how truth and reconciliation are calibrated. Here, the rhetoric of civil engagement associated with healing will be central to our study.

Instructor(s)
  • Sara Byala
Semester

Fall 2023

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Tuesday / Thursday: 1:45 PM – 3:14 PM

As a writing seminar, this course will focus on both the articulation and the writing o f reconciliation, with students undertaking white papers and then op-eds on related sub topics. Our course text will ground us in Africa, though students may wish to conduct cross cultural analysis in their self directed research. At its core, this course is about how humans find ways to talk across pain and, in so doing, create paths for healing.

Note: This is an SNF Paideia designated writing seminar, designed to examine and encourage dialogue across differences. Students and faculty participating in the Paideia writing seminar cluster will have an opportunity to meet once a month for dinner, dialogue, and a keynote speaker or facilitator, as well as engage in other cross seminar community building activities. SNF Paideia designated courses are noted on student transcripts.

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