Please note: Schedule change: No class Nov 24 - course now ends Dec 1

In 1955, the author Patrica Highsmith created one of the most compelling fictional characters of all time, Thomas Ripley. The only cinematic representation that comes close is the 2025 Netflix series, Ripley. We will watch all eight episodes, plus have an introduction in our first class to Carravagio. Ripley has been described as a sociopath, a psychopath, with antisocial personality disorder thrown in for good measure. He and Carravagio have the same traits. I never require reading, but it is extremely helpful to read The Talented Mr. Ripley to gain an insight into his character. You will become absorbed like no other class, except perhaps Rome, that I have ever presented.