Examines fundamental concepts regarding the relationship of the individual to the creative arts. Topics will vary by semester and be identified by subtitle.

Studies agrarian themes and their importance by surveying literature, music, paintings, and photography. Focuses on artistic perceptions of the earth and human relationships to it. Explores agrarian traditions, values and beliefs. Includes a study of agrarian social, political and economic issues.

Develops a critical understanding of the verbal and visual art of children's literature. Reflects major stories of world art and literature through two centuries of English language publications. Includes novels, short stories (including folk tales) and picture books. Readings will be placed in historical, cultural and literary contexts, with emphasis on techniques of writing and publishing, as well as pedagogical philosophies.

Explores the concept of "home" both locally and globally by analyzing how diverse writers and creators use language, image, and form to construct space, place and cultural identity. Drawing from this critical exploration, students will create texts of their own that employ the creative and analytical skills they've learned. Through the process of "writing home" and sharing their lived experiences with peers, students will begin to create a sense of "home" at MCLA.