《怪奇物語》（S4，第 1 卷）：80 年代夏令營中的成長與身份

Class 1: This class will recap seasons 1-3 and discuss it as a coming age of period piece with discussion of the Cold War and the HIV/AIDS epidemic (these pieces of history contribute to public opinions like patriotism and identity). The story would look much different if it took place further in the past, or in the present. We will discuss the significance of the period and how it affected the storyline as it is, and how this will affect season 4.
       Homework: Watch S4, episodes 1+2

Class 2: Episodes 1 and 2 introduce a new villain and some new characters. Eleven is struggling at school and no longer has powers. She has had many roadbumps in the way of her establishing her own identity, and this causes an internal struggle. Will's identity has been hinted at in every season and this one goes into it a bit further. Robin also expresses her worries of being a "town pariah" during a conversation with Steve about dating. We will discuss all of this in relation to the time period and how this specifically can drive the story forward.
      Homework: Watch S4, episodes 3-5

Class 3: These episodes highlight the need that Eleven feels to have her superpowers. Is her need more selfless or selfish? She's had them as long as she can remember, so are they part of her identity? Lucas tries his hand at being "cool" and loses touch with his friends, but reconnects with them in time to save Max. What is the significance of the song she likes? Is there any meaning behind it? With Eleven's flashbacks, we're given a few inconsistencies that require some theorizing. How is it that Eleven can speak clearly in the flashbacks, but spent seasons 1-3 struggling to speak even small sentences? What is happening with everyone else? How is technology portrayed in these episodes and what does that say about the time period? What would Stranger Things look like in the digital age?
       Homework: Watch S4, episodes 6+7

Class 4: What will we see when Volume 2 releases? What will happen with Nancy and Eleven? Is Max safe? Will the gang get back together soon? We will again address each character and their identities, including Will and Robin. Being LGBTQ+ can possibly create feelings that could make them targets.
       Homework: None