Understanding: Arts and Humanities Perspectives
These presentations explore the nature and effects of COVID-19 through the Arts and Humanities disciplines.
Essential Question
How can literature be the mirror of life?
Different aspects of life are reflected in all forms of literature even in works of fantasy or horror. Therefore, even if the setting or the world presented in a literary work is alien to the regular human being, the struggles the characters go through with issues like isolation, despair, and hope are all familiar concepts to everyone who is alive today.
Elton John once said it's lonely out in space; however, being confined at home during this time can, sometimes, feel as lonely as being “out in space.” Therefore, in this session, we are going to discuss how Mark Watney, the protagonist in Andy Weir’s novel The Martian, has coped with his life on Mars. We are going to examine some of his thoughts and emotions and connect them to our own lives during quarantine.
To Do
- Watch the video. The students in today’s session have shared their own thoughts and feelings about isolation and hope.
- It is your turn now to reflect on your own while being quarantined at home. Write your reflection on the discussion board. Include in your writing ideas about what gives you hope and what pushes you to move forward. Share quotes from other literary works that you feel represent your thoughts and emotions and discuss how.
Program
Day 1: Tuesday, April 21
09:45 - 10:45
Opening Plenary: What Is COVID-19?
11:30 - 12:30
Understanding: STEM Perspectives
13:30-14:00
Stories of Survival
14:00 - 15:00
Understanding: Arts and Humanities Perspectives
Day 2: Wednesday, April 22
09:30 - 10:30
Overview and Plenary Session
10:30 - 11:15
Synthesis and Application: Guests
11:45 - 12:30
Synthesis and Application: King’s Academy Faculty
13:30 - 14:15
Closing Plenary
14:15-15:00
Closing Notes and Charge