Why do we care so deeply about what happens to our favorite characters in plays, films, and role-playing games? This course explores the techniques that writers, directors, and designers use to encourage compelling narratives in these forms. Over seven weeks you’ll reflect on why you might immerse yourself in these works, and you’ll explore how creative artists use this immersion to challenge your expectations. We’ll watch plays and films, and we’ll explore role-playing games together to examine why we invest in characters in spite of, and sometimes because of, the limitations that surround the productions and games. This course will ask you to think critically about your experiences and to reflect on opportunities to apply what you learn outside of class.