Written by Troi Watts
Communiversity – the University of Indianapolis’s book club-style online course – returns this fall to explore Stupid house by Charles Dickens.
Why should you sign up for the Communiversity this year?
1. Because you are a fan of courtroom dramas.
Stupid house follows the Jarndyce family as they become embroiled in a lengthy legal battle over a disputed inheritance. As the legal battle progresses, each family member uncovers long-hidden secrets, including long-lost relatives, and becomes embroiled in nefarious plots that culminate in murder. If you like thrills and big revelations, Stupid house should be on your TBR list.
2. Because you are interested in the social impact of the legal system, especially in a historical context.
Stupid house offers a scathing critique of the 19th-century British legal system, particularly the Court of Chancery. Through the never-ending case of Jarndyce and Jarndyce, Dickens exposes the inefficiency and injustice of the legal system and encourages readers to think about broader social and legal issues.
3. Because you want to join a book club but don’t have time to meet in person.
Between work, school, and your daily routine, you may not have time to drive across town to join the local book club. Luckily, Communiversity brings the book club to you. The course is completely virtual, with manageable weekly readings you can do at home or wherever you like to read, as well as online discussions with other readers.
4. Because you enjoy hearing new perspectives on classic novels.
In addition to weekly readings and online discussions with other Communiversity students, you will have the opportunity to attend three lectures in which UIndy professors explore the themes of Bleak House. Each faculty member represents a different area of study, allowing students to delve deeper into the historical context and themes. Stupid house. Bonus: All three lectures have both an in-person and virtual meeting option, so you can join from anywhere.
This year’s lecture series includes:
- Dr. Chad Martin, Associate Professor of History
- Dr. Jonathan Evans, Professor of Philosophy
- Dr. Grant Williams, Assistant Professor of Theatre
5. Because the course costs only $10* and the novel is free!
Memberships to gyms and other clubs can be quite expensive on a monthly basis, but with Communiversity, you can connect with like-minded readers, read a classic novel, and hear from expert lecturers—all for a one-time fee of $10! Plus, you get access to a free copy of Stupid house courtesy of Project Gutenberg.
*UIndy students can enroll in Communiversity for free as part of their semester courses. The course fee is included in their semester bill.
Have we convinced you? Learn more about Communiversity 2024 and register by Friday, August 30 at https://uindy.edu/cas/english/communiversity.
