Film as Narrative: Inventing Scotland
Scotland - Edinburgh
July 19 - August 16, 2008

This program is confirmed; enrollments will be accepted through May 1st.
Class Size: 18-24


What is Scotland?   Who are the Scots?  How has the medium of film contributed to these cultural constructs?  To answer these questions, we will study popular film from the silent era to the contemporary. Our explorations will unfold against a backdrop of Scottish history and selections from key literary figures such as Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, Muriel Spark, and Irvine Welsh.  We will be based in Edinburgh, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, during the Edinburgh Festival, the world’s largest arts festival—and we’ll take the opportunity to attend several events.  Field trips will visit film location sites in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, including the spectacular Highlands. Dr. Johns will co-teach the course with award-winning Scottish screenwriter Ninian Dunnett.

What Students Have to Say about
Summer Abroad in Scotland

Going to Scotland was one of the greatest experiences of my life. It was incredibly liberating to travel across the world alone and to land in such a beautiful city was like a dream. Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and the Scottish people are so warm and inviting. I have never met such wonderful people as the Scots. Professor Johns is an amazing professor. Not only is he incredibly knowledgeable about Scottish Literature, he fully understands and respects the culture and learning about it from him is very rewarding. Not only did I get to spend a month in the most beautiful nation in the world, I had amazing adventures and earned 8 units in the process.
Tamara Thompson 2003

The trip to Scotland was one of the best things I have ever done. I met so many interesting exciting people while traveling there. Some of the people have remained close friends. The cultural aspect of Scotland is incredible! The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is taking place while you are there involving plays, music, and marching bands (Edinburgh Miliitary Tattoo) from around the world. Never before have you see such an eclectic mix of the arts. Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and so many other sights make this trip so memorable. Dr. Johns' teaching style and the books you read really make you feel a part of the Scottish culture. You can learn so much while having so much fun.
Andrea Pierce 2002

I will never forget my experience in Scotland with Summer Abroad. Scotland is the most beautiful country imaginable and the program is designed so that we were able to experience all of its beauty and unique culture. From experiencing a number of intimate plays unique to the Scottish festival to recreating a hike taken by a character in a book written in 1824 the entire program is unforgettable. I would recommend this program to anybody who wishes to have an experience that cannot be found anywhere else.
Whitney Tiedemann 2002