The Sporting Life

The Sporting Life is a Social Science class taught by Will Ryan.

Course Description
This course explores the history of sports and sports writing in the United States. We will read about field and recreational sports such as hunting, fishing, canoeing and climbing; amateur and professional sports such as boxing, baseball, football and racing (of all sorts); and less traditional sports, as well. The literature of sport provides a window into American social history. As numerous observers note, the playing field is nothing less than our nation in microcosm, and most issues ? race, gender, class, among others - work their way into the lineup, at times with dramatic effect. Readings include popular and scholarly articles, stories, essays, biographies, and histories, all of which serve as critical reference points as well as models of writing. Students will complete a series of critical and creative written assignments, and there will be regular opportunity for peer review.

Learning Goals

 * Reading
 * Writing