HUM S09 - Passages

Course Description

The Passages series is a humanities-based series covering topics on art, theater, music, and more. *Note: On occasion, due to unforeseen circumstances, speakers and topics may change.  

Course Outline

MINI PASSAGES SERIES

Tuesday, June 2
Radio Goes to War
World War II was the first war in history to receive almost continuous coverage on the radio. Radio historian and "Those Were the Days" host Steve Darnall examines how radio rose to the challenge of life during wartime. He’ll share sound clips of programs from news broadcasts, presidential speeches, entertainment shows and more that were designed to boost morale both at home and among the armed forces.

Tuesday, June 9
Burton, Worth and Selfridge: Pioneers of the Fashion Industry
What do Rose Burton, Charles Frederick Worth and Harry Selfridge have in common? These movers and shakers of the fashion industry developed systems that still hold true today. Their entrepreneurial spirit, ambitious (sometimes avant-garde) approaches, and unique paradigms put them ahead of their time. From fashion design to department store retail, join instructor Jill Payne as she shares her research of these three pioneers of the world of fashion.

Tuesday, June 16
America's Blond Bombshell: Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe is portrayed by historical presenter Michelle Gibbons who discusses Monroe’s tragic childhood and struggle for stardom, her rise to fame, her famous movies, and her alleged relationship with President John F. Kennedy. Learn why Marilyn became so much more than just a beautiful face.

Tuesday, June 23
An American in Cuba
During a brief thaw in U.S.-Cuba relations, it was possible for Americans to visit Cuba by cruise ship from the U.S. mainland. Chicago author and historian Eric Bronsky will share his adventure and explore how the Cuban people use their ingenuity and cultural heritage to cope with present-day challenges. This multimedia travelogue features visits to three major cities: Havana, Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba. In many respects, time has stood still on this island nation since the Cuban Revolution in 1959.

PASSAGES SERIES I 

Tuesday, July 7
Framing Ted Bundy
Serial killer Ted Bundy killed more than 30 women and girls. In news stories, he developed the persona of an intelligent, handsome killer who charmed women into following him to their deaths. In real life, Bundy struggled with school, employment, and had poor social skills. Most of his victims were actually kidnapped by force or attacked while sleeping. So how did the Bundy legend develop? And why has it persisted? Dr. Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi explains media framing in “Framing Ted Bundy: How a Media Myth Became Legend.”

Tuesday, July 14
Making the Declaration of Independence: Historical and Philosophical Sources
When Thomas Jefferson, under deadline, took pen in hand to write a declaration of independence, he was not starting with a blank slate of ideas. He drew on many sources for his inspiration and sometimes even for his wording, including the long tradition of English rights, political philosophers such as John Locke and others. Join historian Joyce Haworth for a deep look at the historical sources behind the Declaration of Independence.

Tuesday, July 21
On Neil Postman: Media and Technology Prophet
Andrew Llaneza explores the themes and works of famed New York University educator, author and social critic Neil Postman. Postman wrote significantly in the 1980s and 1990s about the impact that media, science and technology would have on our world. As the most distinguished prophet of his time, we can use Postman’s ideas and perspectives as a foundation into societal solutions and our own personal adaptations in this technological environment — or as coined by Postman, a “technopoly.”

Tuesday, July 28
Gimme a Gimmick! The Films of William Castle
Step right up for a thrilling ride through the outrageous world of William Castle, the master of movie gimmicks. Known for vibrating seats, floating skeletons and “fright insurance,” Castle transformed B-movies into unforgettable spectacles. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a multimedia presentation exploring his inventive showmanship, iconic films like House on Haunted Hill and The Tingler, and the over-the-top promotions that made him a cult legend.

Tuesday, August 4
Destination: Heartland History
The history of the Midwest is remarkable and often surprising. Fortunately, people realized early on that it was worth preserving. Cynthia Clampitt will take us on a tour of destinations and events across the Greater Midwest that reveal how a region famed for supplying food actually supplied so much more, including iconic images, legendary individuals, and inventions that would change the world. From prehistory to present, Wild West to Wright Brothers, hear the tales and “visit” the museums, living-history venues, archaeological digs, historic towns, vintage farms, reenactments, and even restaurants that make the Midwest’s past accessible—and fun.

Tuesday, August 11
Songs of the Silver Screen
“Songs of the Silver Screen” came about in 2024 and thrilled audiences with some of John LeGear’s most creative work, including none better than the combination of Charlie Chaplin’s brilliant film City Lights blended with Art Garfunkel’s rendition of “I Only Have Eyes for You.” Join LeGear for this lyrical tour through the decades to recall some of the most magnificent songs and dances of our lifetime. It’s a festival of joy.

Tuesday, August 18
Moments That Made America: Turning Points in 250 Years
From independence to innovation and conflict to cultural change, this engaging lecture highlights pivotal events that shaped the course of American history. As the nation marks its 250th birthday, Valerie Gugala will take you through key moments — both celebrated and overlooked — that defined the country’s identity, tested its ideals and propelled it forward. Discover how these turning points continue to influence the America we know today.