ENG 270 - Special Topics in Literature

Deep dive into a special topic (such as genre, historical period, author, issue, theoretical or methodological approach) at the 200-level, which includes multiple of learning outcomes, as listed below. Depending on the Special Topic, the class may fulfill ONE of the following: a period requirement focusing on pre-1700 (D1), 1700-1900 (D2), or post-1900 (D3), or a theory course (E). May be repeatable for credit depending on the topic.

Special Topic Fall 2025:

SECTION 01: TECHNO-ORIENTALISM

Techno-orientalism is the phenomenon of imagining Asia and Asians in hypo- or hyper-technological terms in western culture and politics. In this seminar, we will study the history and impact of techno-orientalist expressions as a persistent and pernicious form of strategic racialization in U.S. fiction, films, art, and music. We will also examine creative and critical responses of artists and scholars from both sides of the Pacific. The course will use the essay collections Techno-Orientalism: Imagining Asia in Speculative Fiction, History, and Media (2015) and Techno-Orientalism 2.0: New Intersections and Interventions (due out in Summer 2025) as roadmaps for our investigation.

Special note: This seminar is being offered in connection with Wellesley College’s advanced seminar on Techno-Orientalism and presents an excellent opportunity for cross-campus collaborations. The two seminars are scheduled at the same time and will periodically engage with each other over Zoom. Students from both seminars will also co-organize and participate in a Clark-Wellesley mini-symposium on Techno-Orientalism at Wellesley in October 2025.

This course satisfies either the D-3 or E requirement of the English major, but not both.

Prerequisites: Prerequisites: One 100-level English literature course (ENG 100-199) or permission of instructor

Anticipated Terms Offered: Annually