Monstrous History Society: Explore Geography, Sociology and Politics as Kaiju
What's included
1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
Welcome to the Monstrous History Society, an enthralling online club offered through Outschool that delves into the captivating realm of giant monsters, known as "kaiju," as a lens to interpret and process historical events. Since the groundbreaking release of Godzilla in 1954, these awe-inspiring creatures from Japanese cinema have provided a unique, compelling, and undeniably cool means of exploring the depths of our collective past. While Godzilla stands as an emblem of trauma, power dynamics, and the revolutionary changes brought about by the devastating atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the Monstrous History Society aims to utilize the development of giant monsters to delve into an array of events spanning ancient to modern world history. By immersing ourselves in this imaginative realm, we uncover a fresh perspective on pivotal moments that have shaped our human narrative. Each week, our learners will embark on an immersive journey as they are introduced to a different kaiju from the rich tapestry of film history. This exploration will include engaging video clips and a concise briefing from the instructor, providing essential context and insights into the monster's fictional history. Following this, learners will participate in a lively class discussion, collectively dissecting the kaiju's narrative and its correlation to historical events. As the journey unfolds, learners will delve deeper into the historical context surrounding the monster. Through meticulously curated overviews, we will examine the real-world events that influenced and inspired the creation of these colossal beings. Armed with this knowledge, learners will embark on a creative endeavor, crafting their own interpretation of a monster within the same historical framework. Expressing their creativity through drawing, writing, sculpting, or any other medium of their choice, learners will breathe life into their personalized creatures. Monstrous History Society encourages learners to not only unleash their artistic potential but also engage in spirited discussions with their peers. Together, we will traverse the captivating tapestry of monster movie history, unraveling the threads that connect these cinematic marvels with our own world's past. Additionally, we will analyze and scrutinize real events in both ancient and modern world history, broadening our understanding and contextualizing the narrative of these colossal beasts. No prior artistic skill is necessary to embark on this thrilling journey. The Monstrous History Society welcomes all learners, embracing diverse avenues of creative expression. Whether you choose to wield a paintbrush, pen captivating narratives, sculpt three-dimensional masterpieces, or explore alternative artistic outlets, this club offers a supportive environment where your imagination can soar. Step into the Monstrous History Society, where historical exploration intertwines with the realm of kaiju. Uncover the hidden connections between fictional monstrosities and our shared past, and embark on a captivating quest to create your own unique creature. Join us on this imaginative voyage, as we breathe life into history's colossal titans, one monstrous masterpiece at a time. Schedule of Topics: • Week of December 5: Mothra (Toho Co. Ltd., 1961) • Week of December 12: Mothra vs. Godzilla (Toho Co. Ltd., 1964) • Week of January 2: Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster (Toho Co. Ltd., 1964) • Week of January 9: Rebirth of Mothra 1-3 (Toho Co. Ltd., 1996-1998) • Week of January 16: King Kong (RKO Pictures, 1933) • Week of January 23: Clash of the Titans (MGM, 1981, 2010) • Week of January 30: Alien (20th Century Fox, 1979) • Week of February 6: Aliens (20th Century Fox, 1986) • Week of February 13: Predator (20th Century Fox, 1987) • Week of February 20: Rodan (Toho Co. Ltd., 1956) • Week of February 27: The Host (Chungeorahm Film, 2006) • Week of March 6: Cloverfield (Bad Robot Productions, 2008) • Week of March 13: Pulgasari (Korean Film Studio, 1985) • Week of March 20: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (New Line Cinema, 2013) • Week of March 27: Pacific Rim (Legendary Pictures, 2013) • Week of April 3: Godzilla vs. Spacegodzilla (Toho Co. Ltd., 1994) • Week of April 10: Godzilla vs. Destoroyah (Toho Co. Ltd., 1995) • Week of April 17: Godzilla vs Gigan (Toho Co. Ltd., 1972) • Week of April 24: Godzilla: Final Wars (Toho Co. Ltd., 2004) • Week of May 1: Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla (Toho Co. Ltd., 1974) • Week of May 8: Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla (Toho Co. Ltd., 1993) • Week of May 15: Godzilla x Mechagodzilla (Toho Co. Ltd., 2002) • Week of May 22: Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah (Toho Co. Ltd., 1991) • Week of May 29: Gorgo (King Brothers Productions, 1961) • Week of June 5: Reptilicus (Saga Studios, 1961) • Week of June 12: Yongary (Keukdong Entertainment, 1967) • Week of June 19: Gamera (Daiei Films, 1965) • Week of June 26: Gamera vs. Guiron (Daiei Films, 1969) • Week of July 3: Gamera: Guardian of the Universe (Daiei Films, 1995)
Other Details
Parental Guidance
While history is filled with fascinating stories, there are events that can be upsetting for some learners. Teacher Jamie has years of classroom experience navigating these difficult subjects with compassion and objectivity. Learners can expect to share their own perspectives in a respectful, safe environment that is inclusive of all learners, regardless of their socio-economic status, race, ethnicity, sexuality and gender identity. Learners that engage in abusive or harmful behavior directed at other learners will immediately be removed from the discussion.
Supply List
- Something to draw with - Something to draw on
1 file available upon enrollment
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Teacher expertise and credentials
4 teachers have teaching certificates
Georgia Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Non-US Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Georgia Teaching Certificate in Special Education
North Carolina Teaching Certificate in Secondary Education
4 teachers have a Graduate degree
Doctoral Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Arts in Belgrade
Master's Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Arts in Belgrade
Master's Degree in Education from Georgia College and State University
Master's Degree in Education from Georgia State University
Master's Degree in Education from University of Georgia
9 teachers have a Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's Degree in English from Kennesaw State University
Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science from Vassar College
Bachelor's Degree in Education from Georgia Southern University
Bachelor's Degree in Communications from Ramapo College of New Jersey
Bachelor's Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Georgia
Bachelor's Degree in Education from UNCP
Bachelor's Degree in Science from Oglethorpe University
Bachelor's Degree in Science from Hampshire College
Bachelor's Degree in History from Georgia State University
Teacher Jamie has a Bachelor of Arts in History from Georgia State University, and has been credentialed to teach social studies by the state of Georgia. He has over 5 years of experience teaching world history and geography to learners both abroad and in the public school systems of the USA. He has deep experience in diverse classrooms leading discussions of historical and political issues and ensuring that all voices are head and respected.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$18
weekly1x per week
55 min
Completed by 62 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-15
3-12 learners per class