Cartography and the City (Spring)

Maps have helped shape the material and social forms of American cities. At the same time, cities have inspired cartographers to develop new forms of maps. In this seminar we will investigate maps as instruments for understanding the past, navigating the present, and shaping the future of American cities, while also considering how the past, present, and future development of cities influence the design of maps themselves. Major themes will include geography, environmental history, social justice, spatial cognition and wayfinding, and cartographic design. Students will gain skills in critical map reading, computer-based cartography, and integrating pictures in both printed and spoken narratives.