Freshman Seminar: Volcanoes and Civilization

Volcanoes in Literature

1) Read the hand out provided in class on Volcanoes and Literature and Cinema.

2) Find at least one example referenced in the article and look it up in the library. Browse through the text and see if you can find references to volcanic activity. Site the reference (Xerox or copy it) and be prepared to share it with the class.

3) Write a short essay addressing the following points and be prepared to discuss these issues in class.

Ø How does the representation of volcanoes in literature compare with representations in other forms of art?

Ø Why do authors use volcanoes as backdrops for their story telling?

Ø Are volcanoes represented ‘fairly’ in literature?