Cost and Registration Information

Early Registration Price (May 7 at 9 am** – May 24 at 4 pm): $170
Regular Registration Price (May 24 at 4 pm – first day of class): $187

** Registration opens online at 9 am. Phone registration will be accepted starting at 10 am.

Members, seniors, and students get a 10% discount.

Seminar Description

This seminar will explore the historical Jesse James as well as the development of the myths surrounding his life and the ways they intersect with the traditions of social banditry. Drawing upon Newberry sources as well as modern media treatments, we will focus on James’s status as an equalizing hero for specific socio-economic groups, as well as the relevance of the city of Chicago to his story.

Three sessions. E – $170, L – $187

Chad Beharriell holds a graduate degree in interdisciplinary humanities. He has taught for 15 years as an instructor at the university and community-college levels. His research interests include rural issues, social banditry, and the genre of the Western.

Materials List

Required:

• Harold Dellinger, Jesse James: The Best Writings on the Notorious Outlaw and His Gang. Globe Pequot, 2007. ISBN: 978-0762744794
• A selection of shorter materials distributed by the instructor.

First Reading:

• For the first class please read pp. 4-7 and 205-212 of Jesse James: The Best Writings.

This class is part of the Newberry’s Adult Education Seminars Program. Learn more about our registration procedures.