English: The Art of Influence

We live in the age of the influencer - a time when social media celebrities sway public opinion. Historically, great literature has served as a key cultural influence. Then and now, the reader’s thinking and actions can be shaped by the power of a well-told story.

The Art of Influence will explore this power through the study of prominent movies, novels, short stories, and poems. We will uncover the underlying messages or themes expressed in these works and will examine the techniques authors use to create powerful, persuasive stories. We will also determine the truthfulness of these messages. Class time is spent in discussion and debate. Homework is primarily reading/watching with analytical support, along with regular, brief writing assignments. The students will craft their own influential creations as a final project.

(2026-2027)

REQUIREMENTS

Required texts:
Animal Farm (ISBN 9780451526342)
Screwtape Letters (ISBN 9780062023179)
Text for a unit based on class interests will be announced mid-year.
Other texts supplied by the teacher.

Copy fee: $40.00 (paid directly to Mary Bergman at Orientation or on the first day of class attended)

Annual tuition: $440 ($44/month for 10 months, August – May, or $49/month if prorated)

ABOUT THE TEACHER

Mary Bergman

B.A. English

Mary’s lifelong love of great books led her to pursue a degree in English literature from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Upon graduation she attended the College of Education at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. After marrying a handsome Marine officer, she moved to Hawaii, Louisiana, and South Carolina before settling in Richmond. Homeschooling her three children over the last 20 years has been one of her greatest joys and biggest challenges. In addition to teaching her own children, Mary has taught in private schools, homeschool academies and churches. Most recently she has been serving as the Elementary Education Director at her church.