In this course, we will use three classic but perhaps lesser-known novels as a gateway to discuss the politics of three very different countries and the surprisingly similar issues they grapple with. This is not a class on literary analysis, but rather a class that uses literature to explain politics and politics to explain literature. The three authors’ countries we cover will be Japan (Kenzaburo Oe), India (U. R. Ananthamurthy), and Algeria (Tahar Djaout).

Faculty Bio

Darren Zook teaches in political science and global studies at UC Berkeley. His areas of interest include comparative politics, human rights and international law. He has received numerous teaching awards for his creativity in the classroom, and was recently named one of the “Top Ten Most Inspiring Professors at UC Berkeley” by College Magazine. He lectures all around the world, and has published six books. He is currently at work on a research project involving the politics of ice in the era of climate change.

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Member Praise for Darren Zook

Dr. Zook is one of the best teachers I've ever had and I'm 80!

Darren Zook is an amazing teacher. He's a well-organized, extremely knowledgeable, and always engaging.

I have taken several classes with Darren Zook and will take several more. His scope and depth of knowledge is extraordinary. And he is able to communicate it effectively and effortlessly. 

Faculty Q&A

• Read an interview with Darren Zook from our archive.