In this one week intensive Christmas in July camp the students we will explore three of the class short stories in horror.  Students will read each short story before class begins.  Each lesson will cover some basic biographical information about the writer and historical/cultural background needed to analyze the story.  Then we explore how the writer used one of the classic tropes of horror (the artifact, the dream/vision, the fragile female) to structure their short story.  Finally we will spend a significant amount of each class discussing the literary methods that the story uses to elicit horror in the reader. 

Class 1: Learners will read "The Kit-Bag" by Algernon Blackwood before class.  We will discuss the role of "the artifact" in this Victorian classic and modern horror. http://algernonblackwood.org/Z-files/kit_bag.pdf

Class 2: Learners will read "A Strange Christmas Game" by Charlotte Riddell before class. We will discuss "the dream" or "the vision" in this Victorian classic and modern horror. https://www.shortstoryproject.com/story/strange-christmas-game/

Class 3 Learners will read "Horror: A True Tale" by John Berwick Harwood before class.  We will discuss "the fragile female" as a victim in this Victorian classic and modern horror. http://www.underworldtales.com/classic/horror.txt  (This is the most difficult and longest of the stories.  Here is a link to an audiobook available for free on Youtube if it would be easier. https://youtu.be/t2n-p2Y-Yp8)

Because of COPPA regulations, I am not able to recommend students under 13 follow the links to read these stories at this time.  In the introduction post, I will post links to Youtube readings of each story.  If you are interested in reading the stories ahead of time, parents and learners over 13 can find the material by googling the author, title, and the words PDF. 

This is a discussion intensive course. All students are expected to interact with respect and civility.  I understand that the material can be controversial and expect and welcome disagreement, but kindness facilitates productive and persuasive conversation.  If a student finds reading and writing difficult, I am willing for them to access the material in audio format.  Please contact me with any questions concerning accommodations.