CRJ 291 - Exploring Social Justice Through Literature

Course Description: This interdisciplinary seminar will address historical, theoretical, literary and activist approaches to social justice by examining government entities and systemic injustices, particularly within the criminal justice field, as well as how civic engagement and activism advance social justice. Through literary analysis and interpretation of statistical evidence and case studies, the course will define social justice, explore systemic injustices and legacies of injustice, and consider the individual’s role in counteracting and resisting injustice. Discussions will address questions such as: What does it mean to live in a just society? How do we define justice? How might literary works advance (or erode) social justice? How might people address social injustices through civic engagement? Topics covered may include: racial inequity and injustice, gender inequality, environmental/climate justice, LGBTQ+ rights, income inequality, and refugee and migrant rights.
Prerequisite(s): Completion of ENG 101 with a B or better; or by permission of the Honors Director
General Education Elective(s): Criminal Justice; Literature;Humanities
Note(s): N/A

Course Student Learning Outcomes:
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