Can thinking about death lead to a good life? Embracing Life Through the Lens of Loss
Course Description:
Students are welcome to attend the entire series or individual course sessions.
In this fourth session of our six-part series, we delve into the philosophical question of whether contemplating death can lead to a good life. Drawing from various literary works and personal experiences, we will explore themes of loss, grief, and self-discovery. By examining these narratives, we aim to inspire deeper conversations and reflections on how the awareness of our mortality can shape our lives and enhance our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
The inquiry in this course session will encourage us to consider the impact that contemplating death has on our daily lives, our relationships, and our personal development. By studying these works, we hope to gain insights into how the process of grieving and experiencing loss can lead to a deeper appreciation of life and a stronger sense of self, ultimately informing our understanding of what it means to live well.
Course Readings
'The Story of an Hour' by Kate Chopin (2 pages) - A brief yet powerful tale of a woman who experiences a whirlwind of emotions upon learning of her husband's presumed death.
'The Beast in the Jungle' by Henry James (34 pages) - A novella that follows the life of a man who is haunted by a sense of impending doom, which ultimately shapes his relationships and personal choices.
Notes on Grief by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (80 pages) - A moving personal essay about the author's experience of grieving for her father, exploring the universality and nuances of grief and mourning.
The Beginner’s Guide to the End by BK Miller & Shoshana Berger (Chapter 20) - This chapter offers practical advice on navigating grief and loss, with an emphasis on self-care and healing.
Join us for this introspective session as we delve into the world of literature and personal experiences, seeking to understand the complex emotions surrounding loss and grief. Through our discussions, we aim to foster a greater appreciation for the richness of life and the resilience of the human spirit. Together, we will discover how embracing the lessons of loss can ultimately lead us to live more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
Class date & time:
Sunday, May 14, 2023
4:00-6:00 PM PST
Course Questions
How do the different narratives portray the experience of grief and loss, and what common themes can we identify across these works?
How do our perceptions of grief and loss change over time, and how can our understanding of these emotions influence our approach to life?
What coping mechanisms and strategies do the characters in the stories employ, and how do they compare to the advice provided in the practical guide by Miller and Berger?
In what ways do the narratives illustrate the transformative power of grief, both for the individual and for the relationships they share with others?
How can acknowledging and confronting our grief and loss lead to a deeper appreciation of life and a stronger sense of self?