Mysteries of an Odd Country

This course delves into the early European encounters with Australia and the unique challenges and adaptations faced by settlers. It explores the continent's unfamiliar environment, from its reversed seasons to the bewildering weather phenomena observed by explorers. The course will explore how the continent's unique flora and fauna influenced scientific and cultural perceptions, from the discovery of valuable minerals to the adaptation of plants like eucalyptus. The course will also touch upon the cultural impact of myths like the bunyip and the symbolic importance of the Southern Cross. Finally, students will engage with the evolving understanding of Australia's role in scientific debates about the origins of life and human evolution, focusing on the contributions of figures like Charles Darwin and the impact of Aboriginal knowledge on early scientific theories. IN DEVELOPMENT: COURSE OVERVIEW ONLY