Spring 2007

E 360L • Literature of South Asia

Course Description

This course will treat the literature of the subcontinent in the context of history and tradition in its effects on identity. One entry point into understanding history will be through the role playing "Reacting to the Past" exercise centered around the Indian Independence movement in which students will "inhabit" roles as leaders of various factions (Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, British, etc.) and make a case for the "future" of India. The research required to understand each role will also enhance understanding of the tensions found in contemporary literature from the subcontinent. The contemporary novels and short stories we read will build on discussions of Partition and extend into the 21st century.

Grading Policy

Participation in "Reacting" (includes written work, preparation for the role, and debates in the "conference") 25%
Participation in class discussions of literature 10%
Reading quizzes, best 6 of 8 grades 10%
Short paper on experiencing India in Austin: Dining, dancing, listening, etc. 10%
Paper #1 (3-4 pages) 15%
Prospectus for final paper (2-3 pages) 5%
Final paper (6-8 pages) 25%

Texts

R.K. Narayan, The Mahabharata: A Shortened Modern Prose Version; Picador Book of Modern Indian Writing, Amrit Chauduri, ed.; Reacting to the Past: Defining a Nation: India on the Eve of Independence, Ainslee Embry, ed.; Anita Desai, Clear Light of Day; Kiran Desai, The Inheritance of Loss; Arundhatai Roy, The God of Small Things; Course packet

Recommended: Sources of Indian Tradition: V. 2: Modern India and Pakistan, Stephen Hay, ed.

There will be approximately 5 required film texts, most to be scheduled outside of class time.

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