This writing intensive course will focus on Pacific literature and films. We will explore how the indigenous people of the Pacific deal with issues relating to language, culture, poverty, violence, land, environment, gender and sexuality. Students will be introduced to NZ Māori traditional literature, such as myths & legends, and compare to Hawaiʻi and Pacific legends. We will do close readings of novels by Witi Ihimaera, and the film adaptations of his books and short stories. We will explore some short stories by Ngahuia Te Awekōtuku, poetry by Hone Tūwhare and Karlo Mila, plays by Victor Roger and Kiki Rivera, and an autobiography by Florence (Johnny) Frisbe. Because this is a writing intensive course, we will spend some time in class drafting, reviewing, revising and editing your papers.
REQUIRED TEXTS
Bulibasha by Witi Ihimaera
Pounamu Pounamu by Witi Ihimaera
Ruahine by Ngahuia Te Awekotuku
Miss Ulysses from Puka Puka by Florence Johnny Frisbe
Dream Fish Floating by Karlo Mila
Books are available at Revolution Books, 2615 South King, Suite 211., Honolulu, HI 96826. Phone: 944-3106.
SELECTION OF FILMS AND DOCUMENTARIES
Mahana
White Lies
Makutu on Mrs Jones (short film)
The Piano
Haumana
Mana I ka Leo
ASSIGNMENTS
Film response x 2 (500 words ea)
Book response x 2 (1000 words ea)
Essay (1500 words)
Mid-term exam
Final Exam