Fall 2010

Writing the Essay 1: Forgiveness as Power and Paradox - LFYW 1000 A

Professor(s):  Anne McCarthy 
Day(s):  TR
Time(s):  8:00 am - 9:40 am 
CRN:  1900
Credits:  4
Prerequisite(s): 

Course Description
To graciously pardon an offense or selflessly forgive a wrong is perhaps the closest that a human being can come to altering the past. Disinterested forgiveness, without condition, is a cornerstone of many moral and religious traditions, and is sometimes today recommended as a therapeutic gesture. Yet, in spite of the benefits of moving on or getting over the past, forgiveness remains profoundly disruptive and difficult-perhaps even impossible in some cases. This course examines forgiveness in its ethical, political, and interpersonal manifestations. Through regular writing assignments, including three critical papers, students will articulate and revise their own views on forgiveness in conversation with a number of different authors.