"Adapting and Learning From Classic Literary Works" with Jess Hagemann

You’ve probably heard someone claim that there are no new stories, only new versions of old ones. While that statement is debatable, it’s certainly true that almost every story is drawing inspiration from the idea, plot, structure, or characters from some other story. This class puts the focus on that inspiration.

Public domain works are ripe for retelling: generally, they’re ‘classics’ for a reason — but their language, characters, and specific scenarios might be outdated, unappealing to today’s reader. Similarly, real events from history stand to teach us a lot even now, but if their ‘lessons’ are shrouded in unrelatable politics or cultural norms, current generations won’t recognize themselves in it. In this class, learn to save the best bits of a classic story or significant historical moment, while ushering its style into 2019. Participants will take an in-depth look at how a few contemporary authors have repurposed ‘old’ stories and learn ways to incorporate research, pop culture, and current events into their writing.