The Idaho Humanities Council
Presents

John Steinbeck and the Art of Social Engagement

An Interdisciplinary Summer Institute for Idaho Literature and History Teachers
July 20 - 26, 2003 - Albertson College of Idaho - Caldwell, Idaho

Presented by The Idaho Humanities Council and made possible in part 
by the National Endowment for the Humanities.

John Steinbeck received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1962. Photo courtesy the Center for Steinbeck Studies

John Steinbeck and the Art of Social Engagement will explore how writer John Steinbeck (1902-1968) used his work to explore social and political events and issues of his time, such as war, poverty, politics and the environment in such classic works as The Grapes of Wrath, Cannery Row, The Log from the Sea of Cortez, and America and Americans. Scholars also will explore how other writers and artists, such as WPA photographers in the 1930s became engaged in political causes of their time and channeled their views in their art.

The intensive institute will immerse teachers in a week of study and discussion with a team of four of the nation's finest Steinbeck scholars. The team will be joined by 20th century American historian Katherine Aiken, Chair of the University of Idaho History Department, who will help explore the literary works from an historical perspective. Scholars hope to explore ways history teachers may employ literary works to teach history and how literature teachers may explore historical events through literature.

Successful applicants will receive room and board, texts, and a modest stipend to apply toward travel costs or college credit. Teachers also will receive a photocopied compilation of related essays and articles recommended by the presenting scholars. Teachers will be selected before May 1 and sent texts to read in advance of the institute.