AN 2335 - Worldbuilding

Credits: 3
Course Type: Studio

This sophomore-level pre-production course investigates the use of ancient myths and folklore in the creation of new myths for animated films and games. It challenges students to create their own worlds using narrative structures and visual designs relevant to modern audiences. The use of folklore in film, as well as the efficiency of archetypes and symbols, will be introduced and applied as students work on the layered development of their own mythopoeic worlds. The final product will be a collection of narrative and visual materials that describe a world in which filmgoers and game players are drawn into a memorable, immersive experience.

Prerequisites: AG 1110 - Introduction to Animated Storytelling and FD 1235 - Observational Drawing

Course Learning Outcomes:

Apply critical film and narrative theories to the building of mythopoeias and worlds for animation.
Develop relevant narrative and visual storytelling components that reflect an understanding of how universal themes can be expressed with efficacy.
Analyze ethical and social issues involved in developing stories for modern viewing audiences.
Create a conceptual world that invites viewers into an immersive story experience.

AN2335 Course Learning Outcomes Rubric

Required Textbooks:
Building Imaginary Worlds: The Theory and History of Subcreation
978-0-415-63120-4
Mark J. P. Wolf.
Routledge/Taylor & Francis Books.

Fantasy World-Building: A Guide to Developing Mythic Worlds and Legendary Characters
978-0-486-82865-7
Mark A. Nelson.
Dover
Required Course Materials:

Photoshop