In this course, we will look at the phenomenon of spectacle from diverse but inter-related perspectives and try to understand what is at work in our “spectacular experiences.” As we read from various authors such as Kant, Nietzsche, Heidegger, Artaud and Debord, we will investigate what spectacle is, its dynamics and its sign language and examine various issues pertinent to our project: imagination, ecstasy-participation, technology, feelings and catharsis (violence and discharge of emotions), the unconscious and transference (individual and collective) and alienation. The course is designed to be interactive where our readings will be blended with our everyday experiences of spectacle and with our class experience of various visits to museums, galleries, theaters, dance, and music events. In addition, we will view multi-media works and film and discuss them in the light of theories covered in class, while understanding the social, economic, and political dimensions of our spectacular experiences.