Modern Monsters: Culture, Meaning, and Writing
What do monsters reveal about our culture, our fears, ourselves? Spend a week writing, reading, and thinking deeply about the stories we tell and why they matter
Join a long tradition of bold, original writing at Bennington College, where generations of writers have shaped contemporary literature and culture.
August 17-21, 2026
Location: Bennington, Vermont
Format: In-person, non-credit
Audience: Ages 18+
Early registration discount available through May 15, 2026—save $200.
Bennington alumni are eligible for an additional 10% discount. Enrollment is limited.
Unlike traditional critical writing workshops, Bennington College's Summer Writing Workshop integrates critical analysis and creative practice, helping you to improve your writing skills and encouraging you to think deeply about what writing can do.
This workshop focuses on modern monsters, figures that reflect power, fear, identity, and change. By practicing close readings of literature and films, participants will examine how stories shape meaning, while developing their own voice as writers.
Rooted in Bennington’s interdisciplinary approach to writing, the summer writing program emphasizes developing your writing voice, collaborating with colleagues, writing as thinking, and expanding your critical skills.
Program Highlights
- Explore how monsters reveal cultural fears, desires, and meaning
- Develop both critical and creative writing skill
- Learn to build strong arguments and thesis-driven work
- Experiment with new forms, genres, and perspectives
- Practice grammar, revision, research, and citation skills
- Build new and productive habits of reading and writing
- Work closely with Bennington faculty and a small cohort of peers
Designed for
- Emerging writers looking to build confidence and skills
- College students strengthening academic or creative writing skills
- Advanced high school students and graduates (18+) looking to strengthen their reading and writing skills in preparation for college
- Educators seeking new approaches to teaching writing
- Adult learners returning to writing or exploring new forms
No prior experience is required, only curiosity and a willingness to engage with new ways of writing.
Space is limited. Register today!
Faculty
Location and Experience
Set in the mountains of southern Vermont, Bennington College offers an environment designed for focus and creativity.
Participants spend the week immersed in writing while engaging with a small, collaborative academic community. Outside of class, the campus is surrounded by beautiful landscape that provides space to think, walk, reflect, and continue conversations beyond the workshop.
Mornings are structured, with faculty-led sessions focused on reading, writing, and discussion. Afternoons are more flexible with opportunities for individual or group work, informal collaboration, or exploration of campus and the surrounding area. Evenings are unstructured, giving you space to rest, connect, or continue your work in your own way.
Pricing and Logistics
Tuition: $1,400
Room: $550 (optional)
Board: $450 (optional)
Early registration discount available through May 15, 2026—save $200. Bennington alumni are eligible for an additional 10% discount.
Duration: One week, with participants arriving August 16 and departing August 22
Format: In-person, non-credit
Eligibility: Ages 18+
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this course for credit?
No, this is a non-credit summer program.
Can I attend the program online?
No. The program is only available in-person.
What kind of writing will I do?
Participants explore both critical writing in creative ways, guided by the course theme.
Do I need prior writing experience?
No. The program is open to writers at all levels.
I am new to writing. Is this workshop for me?
Bennington faculty will work with students at any level, and beginning writers are very welcome.
I am an experienced writer. Is this workshop for me?
Bennington faculty will work with you to expand your writing skills and give you innovative ideas about how to revise.
What is the time commitment each day?
Mornings are structured, with faculty-led sessions focused on reading, writing, and discussion. Afternoons are more flexible with opportunities for individual or group work, informal collaboration, or exploration of campus and the surrounding area. Evenings are unstructured, giving you space to rest, connect, or continue your work in your own way.
Is there wifi available?
Yes. Bennington offers two wireless networks. Please view more information about accessing Bennington’s wifi networks.
What do dining options look like if I purchase a meal plan with my registration?
Bennington proves that college food can be inspiring, nourishing, and delicious. Our Chefs are continually creating new and flavorful dishes alongside much-loved staples featuring sustainably sourced products from our local farmers and producers. Meals offer a wide range of options drawing on cuisines from around the world, and including vegetarian, vegan, and made-without-gluten selections at every meal. Learn more about dining services at Bennington.
How do I get to campus?
Please see more information about getting to Campus.
What is the refund policy?
- Cancel by June 15, 2026 - Full refund
- Cancel by July 15, 2026 - 50% refund
- Cancel by August 1, 2026 - No refund
Additional questions can be directed to summer@bennington.edu.
Ready to strengthen your writing skills?
Register now to secure your spot. Enrollment is limited.