PS 1661 - GAME OF THRONES AND POLITICAL THEORY

Minimum Credits: 3
Maximum Credits: 3
This course considers George R.R. Martin's popular "song of fire and ice"/"game of thrones" series in a political context. The class will consider the way that the series speaks to and shapes political attitudes and beliefs, as well as the way that martin's creative vision was formed by reference to history and politics. The course will begin with reading martin's own writing: the book game of thrones. Then it will explore the historical inspiration of the series, the wars of the roses, and some of the political theory that was created in reaction to that period. Following that, it will cover a few critical political theorists whose works focus on narratives about power, deception, and authority (the core themes of the series). Students in the class will gain exposure to Machiavelli, Locke, de Montesquieu, and Arendt in the course of this consideration, while also getting a chance to understand and discuss the popular books and television show in academic and sustained fashion. As a note, prior reading or viewing of the series is not required, nor necessary, though it will be helpful (and a spoiler policy will be given before the start of the term to minimize concern for those at various points of encountering the series). Grading will be primarily focused on short reaction papers, in-class writing and recall exercises, and a final argumentative research paper.
Academic Career: Undergraduate
Course Component: Lecture
Grade Component: LG/SNC Elective Basis

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