The Haunting of Hill House: (Don't go into the nursery!)

Shirley Jackson is an acknowledged master of the psychological horror genre, which is very different from the stereotypical bloody, slashy, monstery stories many people think of when they think of horror. While this story has supernatural elements,  most of the really scary stuff might just be what goes on in the mind of the main character. 

This class is designed for the student who:

1. Has an interest in weird, scary stories.
2. Can read but doesn't necessarily like to. (Of course, avid readers are welcome, too.)
3. Is willing to read (or listen to) approximately 15-30 pages per week on their own. We will read as much as possible in class, but nobody will be forced to read aloud against their will.

Supplemental materials and videos will provide background and enrichment weekly. 

Assignments: We will begin reading and discussing the first chapter in class. The remaining chapters are homework and should be read before the next class. 

Students will be expected to write a short journal entry after each week's reading is complete. This should include the main characters, the setting, a brief description of the main conflicts, and most importantly, a reaction to/thoughts on/questions about the chapters.

SCHEDULE NOTE: For the autumn 2022 class, there will be no class on Friday, November 25th.

Week 1
Introductions, expectations, author biographical information, and important literary concepts. We will begin reading the book together in class, with volunteers* reading aloud. 
What we don't finish reading in class should be completed by next week’s class: Chapters 1 & 2
(*This is the old-fashioned kind of volunteering--the student has to WANT to read. No one will be forced.)

Week 2
Discussion and sharing of selected journal observations. 
We will begin reading, and what we don't finish in class will be homework to be completed by next week’s class: Chapter 3

Week 3
Discussion and sharing of selected journal observations. 
We will begin reading and what we don't finish in class will be homework to be completed by next week’s class: Chapter 4

Week 4
Discussion and sharing of selected journal observations. 
The final project will be introduced and options discussed. Projects may be designed by each student or chosen from a list provided and might include research, essay writing, creative writing, painting, drawing, sculpture, music, performance, etc. Some examples will be provided.
We will begin reading and what we don't finish in class will be homework to be completed by next week’s class: Chapters 5 & 6

Week 5
Discussion and sharing of selected journal observations. 
We will begin reading and what we don't finish in class will be homework to be completed by next week’s class: Chapters 7 & 8

Week 6
Discussion and sharing of selected journal observations. 
We will begin reading and what we don't finish in class will be homework to be completed by next week’s class: Chapters  9
The final project will be discussed. 

Week 7
Students will present their projects to the class.