Studying Place by Metes and Bounds (ENV4232.01)

Miroslava Prazak

In New England, parcels of land were traditionally described in reference to specific existing landscape features—a system called “metes and bounds.” This course, grounded in the ecology, history and culture of the Bennington region over its 250-plus year history, explores human interactions with the biophysical environment to produce livelihoods as well as economic commodities from woolen underwear to carpenter squares and other manufactures for New England and beyond. How have these interactions shaped the area and how does their interplay constrain and enable its future? What features of social life and the natural environment have been, or should be, sustained? Fieldwork and practical exercises will provide an entry into the tools, skills and approaches to studying Bennington, a place of many horizons and boundaries.

Prerequisites: Previous work in anthropology, environmental studies or SCT. For registration, please email the instructor at mprazak@bennington.edu. Include information about your plan and how you meet the prerequisite. Sign up will be on first come first serve basis.
Credits: 4
W 10:00am - 11:50am; W 2:10pm - 4:00pm
Maximum Enrollment: 16
Course Frequency:
This course is categorized as 4000, All courses, Anthropology, Environment, Four Credit, Miroslava Prazak, Wednesday Afternoons, Wednesday Mornings.