This English elective offers students an in-depth exploration of murder mystery literature through the works of Agatha Christie, who is widely recognized as the best selling novelist of all time. Although 50 years have passed since Christie’s death, her stories remain popular globally. Students in the course will evaluate Christie’s methods for challenging readers to use evidence-based, critical thinking, and to pay close attention to detail. They will analyze plot structure, characterization, and theme; identify and evaluate literary devices such as foreshadowing, misdirection, and suspense; write analytical and creative responses to the literature; and engage in group discussions and problem-solving activities. They will investigate such essential questions as, “What makes a narrator reliable…or unreliable?” “How do clues, red herrings, and pacing shape the reader’s experience?” and “Why have Christie’s stories endured across cultures and generations?” This course blends literary analysis with problem-solving, which makes it ideal for students who enjoy puzzles. In addition, Christie’s works open conversations about historical context, gender roles, and the evolution of crime fiction. Texts include The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, And Then There Were None, Murder on the Orient Express, and A Murder is Announced.

Offered Spring 2027