Summer 2008

E f342 • Life and Literature of the Southwest

Course Description

This course examines how Texas authors describe and explore the diversity and complexity of a state too often seen in terms of myth and caricature. To do so, we will read literature from four traditions: Southern (East Texas), Western, Mexican-American, and Urban. Writers to be studied include Katherine Anne Porter, Larry McMurtry, Américo Paredes, Cormac McCarthy, and others. We will also see portions of films that are relevant to our discussion.

Grading Policy

Mid-term, 40 per cent; final, 50 per cent; in class participation and attendance, 10 per cent.

Texts

Don Graham, ed., Lone Star Literature; Larry McMurtry, Horseman, Pass By; Cormac McCarthy, No Country for Old Men; Katherine Anne Porter, Pale Horse, Pale Rider.

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