Join us in this discussion-based film and literature course as we explore several of Alfred Hitchcock’s masterful cinematic adaptations. Focusing on films such as Focusing on films such as The Lady Vanishes, Rebecca, Spellbound, Strangers on a Train, Vertigo, and The Birds, we will examine how Hitchcock transformed literary and artistic sources into cinematic experiences by comparing textual and visual storytelling techniques.
When Hitchcock adapts a work, is he primarily interpreting the source material or asserting authorial control over it? In what ways is an adaptation an “original” text? How do cinematic conventions shape how narratives are transferred and expressed? In other words, how do cinematic adaptations express point of view, interiority, ambiguity, irony, and symbolism? How do issues of censorship, audience expectation, and studio production shape the final film? Furthermore, Hitchcock often adapted the work of female authors, so how do we evaluate his legacy considering contemporary revelations about the way he treated his female leads? By exploring these questions, we will gain a deeper understanding of adaptation as both interpretation and creation.
Required texts:
Participants must obtain a copy of the required texts at the bookstore or library of their choice.
Standard Tuition: $210.00
New Participant Tuition: $150.00
Day: Wednesdays
Time: 6:15 - 8:15 PM
Location: 3405 Atwater Ave and Zoom
Course leaders: Valerie Amyot, Karen Staudinger, Faye Trecartin
Please note that in the case of extenuating circumstances (e.g. a snowstorm) an in-person course may be temporarily held on Zoom.
First session: September 16 2026
Course length: 12 weeks
Degree credit: 3
Maximum number of participants: 18
Please note that the Thomas More Institute does not allow participants to audit courses for free.
About the Thomas More Institute: The Thomas More Institute has been providing adults with stimulating lifelong learning opportunities in Montreal since 1945. A secular and non-profit academic institution, TMI offers an ever-evolving choice of university-level courses in the liberal arts, including discussion-based courses, lecture-style courses, writing workshops, and more. Our courses are held in small groups, offering an alternative learning environment to that of traditional university courses. You can take individual courses that interest you, or work toward a structured bachelor of arts degree or comprehensive certificate that involve additional coursework. Share Your Curiosity at TMI!
About course fees: all prices displayed include Tuition and the Administrative fee.
Leaders of another course, and anyone else wishing to register by phone, should call (514) 935-9585 to register.