How often have you tried to write about relatives you’ve never met or get in touch with ancestors who seem out of reach? Have you tried to write your family history accurately, but you’re getting stuck? Or maybe you want to get a sense of your ancestral lands, but it’s not possible to visit those places right now. In this class, we will use research and writing to find, generate, imagine, and speculate about information of your ancestors and family lineage. The first two weeks will consist of using digital techniques to uncover material about your ancestors’ cultures and lands. The second two weeks will consist of techniques from astrology and herbalism to feel embodied in your research and writing. You will leave the class with new methods for researching and understanding your family lineage, as well as new writing for your future projects. No knowledge of astrology or herbalism are required.

Week 1 – Google Scholar (Databases and Search Engines)

Week 2 – The Silver Screen (Movies and Film)

Week 3 – The Moon (Astrology)

Week 4 – Leaves, Roots, Blossoms (Herbalism)

Please note: This class or event will be held online (using Zoom or a similar live platform). To participate, students or attendees should have a stable internet connection. Class participants: you should have a computer or device with a webcam and microphone; and your Zoom link will be automatically sent to you after you register. Check your spam box if you don't see it.