Department of Germanic Languages & Literatures University of Toronto
For Maxx Calame, a first-year student and self-proclaimed vampire connoisseur, enrolling in GER194H Our Vampires, Ourselves was a defining factor in choosing the University of Toronto. This captivating course, taught by Professor Erol Boran, delves into the cultural and historical significance of vampires, examining how these immortal figures reflect societal fears, desires, and transformations.
With a syllabus that spans classic and contemporary vampire tales—Dracula, Carmilla, True Blood, Twilight, and more—students explore the ever-evolving nature of these creatures. “Vampires change with the times, but very often they’re presented as out of time,” says Professor Boran, highlighting the paradox that keeps vampires endlessly fascinating.
The course offers students the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking discussions, analyze literary and cinematic depictions of vampires, and consider how these figures serve as mirrors of our own experiences. Whether students arrive as long-time enthusiasts of vampire lore or as newcomers to the genre, GER194H promises a fresh and compelling perspective on these legendary beings.
Read more about this fantastic course in A&S News by Cynthia Macdonald.
