Spring 2007

E 376S • African American Literature since the Harlem Renaissance

Course Description

Using texts drawn from poetry, drama, fiction, and nonfiction, this course will examine the development of African American literature from the mid-twentieth century to the present. Our primary focus will be themes of migration and identity formation. We will also consider how the international geographies of particular texts expand and complicate the category of "African American."

Grading Policy

Peer review/Preliminary draft of first short paper (4 pages) 10%
Two short papers (4 pages each) 40%
Final critical essay (6-7 pages) 35%
Reading responses 15%

Attendance is mandatory. More than three unexcused absences will result in a significant reduction of your grade.

Texts

Dorothy West, The Living is Easy
James Baldwin, Notes of a Native Son
Malcolm X, The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Toni Morrison, Tar Baby
Charles Johnson, Middle Passage
Edwidge Danticat, Krik? Krak!

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