Workshop for Democracy: Define Your Hero and Find Your Plot

Workshop for Democracy

This is a Workshop for Democracy, designed by Steve Almond. In order to provide the discounted tuition, Steve will donate 100% of his teaching fee to the organization Black Votes Matter (blackvotesmatter.org) in hopes that registrants contribute the balance of their usual tuition to a cause of their choosing. The suggested donation is $50, though registrants are free to contribute more if they wish. Before class, Steve will *briefly* discuss this aspect of the course with participants, emphasizing ways citizens can be actively involved in this vital moment. No specific candidate or political party will be advocated for or endorsed as part of the Workshop for Democracy.

 Define Your Hero and Find Your Plot

Ever read (or write) a story where the hero or heroine just doesn’t seem to pop? This intensive, fun-filled seminar will investigate why some characters leap off the page, while others just sit there. We’ll look at the work of Joyce Carol Oates, Sylvia Plath, Jane Austen, and others in an effort to create layered characters who can activate your plot. And we’ll work on an in-class exercise to bring the lesson home.

Class Format

This class will take place using Zoom videoconferencing. About 15 minutes before your class is scheduled to begin, you'll receive an email from your instructor with a link to join the class meeting!