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This seminar will explore the human experience in Antarctica and the question: What should be the human use of the continent? Students will consider the influence of scientists, diplomats, visual artists, and writers toward building an understanding of the frozen continent, determining its uses, and interpreting its beauty. Was it serendipity or curiosity that led scientists to discover the ozone hole, examine the Dry Valleys for insights into Mars, or see penguins as sentinels of climate change? The west coast of Antarctica is one of the most rapidly warming places on the planet. Why did twelve nations agree to set aside the continent for peace and science when they had interests in land, fish, and minerals? The protocols of the Antarctic Treaty, which governs peaceful use, come up for possible renewal in 2048. How do artists, writers, and filmmakers visualize and chronicle the vast wilderness for people who will never experience it firsthand? Recent accounts focus less on the power of cold in Antarctica and more on the fragility of its ecosystems to warming. What is the future of Antarctica? The first part of the seminar traces historical ties with Antarctica–exploration, territorial claims, scientific discovery. Students will read journals of explorers, watch videos of expeditions, and meet with former diplomats and scientists. The second explores ideas, values, and visions for the future—commons governance versus territoriality, wilderness versus development, conservation versus exploitation, regulated tourism versus unlimited travel. Throughout, artists’ and writers’ works will animate the discussions. Students will experience a year living and working in Antarctica through an award-winning documentary. Also, we will examine Antarctica as a laboratory for exploring the habitability of earth and the secrets of space. The final weeks will culminate in student visioning of these various perspectives.