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Course Information

Real American Heroes: ConstructingAmerican Idealism (LNC 228)

Term: 2025-2026 Academic Year Spring

Faculty

Charles W EcenbargerShow MyInfo popup for Charles W Ecenbarger
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Schedule

Mon-Thu, 2:00 PM - 3:15 PM (1/12/2026 - 5/6/2026) Location: MAIN MG 118

Description

This course explores how media, from 19th-century propaganda to modern social media, has shaped the concept of the American hero. Students will analyze how various media forms construct and reflect American ideals like individualism, democracy, and patriotism. Through critical analysis and creative projects, you'll learn to see how these heroic narratives have influenced public perception and national identity. The course emphasizes media literacy, treating popular culture as historical texts that both reflect and critique American idealism. Meets General Education categories Collaborative Learning, I.C or III.A (pre-2025), Interdisciplinary Thinking, Historical Thinking (2025+).