Last month, Harvard made an exciting announcement that Stephanie Burt would be teaching a class titled ‘Taylor Swift and Her World’ in the upcoming semester. The open-enrollment lecture will delve into Swift’s work, career, and literature that relates to her artistry. The news sparked widespread interest, with inquiries pouring in from around the globe, eager to know if Swift herself would visit the course, the involvement of her online superfans, and Harvard’s approval of the initiative.
The decision to study Taylor Swift at a prestigious institution like Harvard may seem unconventional, but it is rooted in the idea that the humanities should encompass the study of contemporary culture. With Swift’s pervasive influence on today’s society, it is only fitting to analyze the phenomenon she represents. From the perspective of a cultural historian, the examination of Swift’s impact on American culture, the evolution of public perception towards her, and the reasons behind her artistic prominence is imperative. Similarly, a cultural anthropologist could explore the rituals surrounding Swift’s concerts and album releases, as well as the cross-cultural patterns in her fans’ responses to her music and persona.
Harvard’s decision to offer a course on Taylor Swift signifies the acknowledgment of her significance in shaping modern culture. The class aims to provide an insightful exploration into the multifaceted aspects of Swift’s influence, appealing to enthusiasts and scholars alike. As the anticipation builds for the commencement of the course, it is evident that the study of contemporary cultural icons like Taylor Swift is not only relevant but also essential in understanding the dynamics of today’s society.
