The primary objective of this course is to introduce the student to a wide variety of literature from modern and contemporary writers who have challenged and reshaped the canon of American Literature. The student will study and critically assess various genres including poetry, short fiction, novels, autobiography, film and critical theory. Together, we will work to question and understand the complexities of identity and text formations, as well as the relationship between ethnicity and artistry. We will not only consider the element of ethnicity and/or race, but will also examine other pertinent issues including class, gender, and their roles in shaping both the texts, as well as our understanding of them. Each week we will focus on a different theme/element of study including identity politics, the role of experience in the writing process, nation and selfhood, folk and oral history, and class dynamics.
Course Requirements and Grading Policy
Weekly Discussion Thread Entries (25% of final grade)
Two Short Essays, 3-5 pp. (30% of final grade)
Final Exam (25% of final grade)
Class Participation (20% of final grade)
Required Texts
Gillian, Maria M. & Jennifer Gillian. Eds. IDENTITY LESSONS. New York: Penguin, 1999.
Kincaid, Jamaica. LUCY. New York: Plume, 1990.
Kingston, Maxine Hong. THE WARRIOR WOMAN. New York: Vintage, 1975.
