The notion of the Pacific Islands as 'paradise' is a historic and pervasive fixture of stage, screen and tourist brochures. But when and how did the European construction of 'paradise' and the representations that followed from it come about? More importantly, how have indigenous peoples of the Pacific Islands represented or "re-presented" Oceania in light of that legacy? HIST 344 analyzes depictions of the Pacific Islands including Aotearoa (New Zealand) from a historical perspective with a chronological emphasis on the late 18th century to the present. During the semester students will engage and evaluate historiographical and epistemological debates which have shaped the study of Oceania as well as primary and secondary sources drawn from history, literature, anthropology, art and film.
| Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Arts and Humanities | 1 course |