This course provides you with insights into Plant Studies, a newly
formed theory, and discipline. Plant Studies focus on critical thinking
about plant life and its past, present, and future. We will answer
questions like: How was plant life perceived in the past? How did Plant
Studies emerge, and who are the key thinkers? How can we, as scholars,
apply plant studies’ theories to cultural objects?
The seminar will be organized in two parts: at first, we will work on
the theoretical basis by introducing ourselves to the works of
influential ‘plant’-thinkers from the past like Aristotle, Charles
Darwin, and Carl Linnaeus and by combining their perspectives with those
of the founders of Plant Studies, such as Michael Marder and Monica
Gagliano. Following Plant Studies’ interdisciplinary approach we will
analyse different works of art. The selection of texts might include but
is not limited to Annihilation (novel and film), The Saga of the Swamp Thing (comic), Tuca & Bertie (Netflix series), Zheng Bo’s Pteridophilia (video installation), and others. Student suggestions and participation are requested.
- Dozent/in: Julia Shirley