There is, however, an additional side to English 10a. After each talk other students discuss, and usually argue about, what has been said. Then, too, a series of essays on contemporary problems is read and discussed, and in these two types of discussions nearly any man who is reasonably well acquainted with the affairs of the day will find a great deal that is worth while. It is an unusual opportunity to hear others' opinions, and this last is always a valuable experience.

English 33

"American Literature"

For some years past, English 33 has performed the great service, each year, of making a large number of students acquainted with the wealth of little-probed material that is available in American literature. At the beginning of the course in October there are usually a number of men who are not entirely sure that American writings can offer them anything that will be worth their while. By June these doubters have become enthusiastic readers of American literature.

This transformation is due in great part to the general excellence of the lectures, which are delivered principally by Professor Matthiessen and Dr. Miller. Of course the lectures give information necessary to an understanding of the required reading, but above all else they make even the dullest student interested in the books which he is about to read. Few general survey courses surpass English 33 in point of ability to raise interest in the subject.

The reading is on the whole very good, and the student is continually astonished to discover how many really fine books have been written here in his own country. All of the major books assigned are well worth reading, but a few of the minor works might well be dropped from the list.

Geology 1

"Introductory Geology"

Brilliant lecturer and expert geologist, Professor Kirtley F. Mather is the dynamic force that makes Geology 1 the most enjoyable course offered here for passing off the science requirement. And what is more, it affords a fund of knowledge covering the most fascinating and basic theories of the earth itself.

Three lectures each week account for all the material which must be assimilated in order to pass the examinations. When the subject being discussed lends itself toward especial interest, Professor Mather disports himself before his 200-odd students in a manner which few can hope to imitate, much less surpass. When the subject matter occasionally turns boresome, the lecturer does his best to put spice into the presentation; but this often proves absolutely futile.

One of the attributes of the course is a complete and orderly outline of the entire year issued in September, and adhered to religiously straight through June.

The lab work consists of three hours each week, with field trips in the spring and fall. The indoor study is confined to the study of minerals and rocks through the use of choice specimens, and of geological features through the use of topographic and aerial geology maps, while the out-of-doors trips will acquaint one with a cross-section of greater Boston.

Whether or not the individual enjoys this course depends almost entirely upon himself and his own tastes. It is not a hard course to pass, but a decent amount of application is needed to obtain honor grades.

History 5A

"American History, 1760-1840"