How does the natural world shape our sense of self? In what ways do our personal and cultural identities influence how we experience nature? This course offers a broad exploration of nature writing, drawing from a wide range of genres, voices, and cultural perspectives. Through readings that span environmental essays, memoirs, poetry and fiction, students will explore how writers engage with the natural world to reflect on both their surroundings and their sense of self.

By examining the deep connections between nature, culture, and identity, the course fosters a deeper understanding of how our relationship with the environment shapes—and is shaped by—our evolving sense of who we are. A carefully curated series of readings will encourage a wide-ranging discussion of our evolving relationship with nature. The discussion-oriented focus of the class will be enhanced by place-based opportunities for students to write about their personal relationship to the natural world.

Learn more about the instructor of this course:  https://spanport.washington.edu/people/donald-gilbert-santamaria