Spring 2010

HMN 350 • Texas State of Mind-Honors

Course Description

This course will examine Texas as a physical and historic place as well as a colorful arena for 20th and 21st century politics and popular culture that is without equal in the U.S. The full diversity of the Lone Star state will be taken into account. We will draw from the disciplines of history, geography, journalism, political science, literary studies, art, film studies, and music in assembling our portrait of Texas. Our approach will be to contrast the view of Texas by its inhabitants with the impressions of visitors or outsiders to the state. A special emphasis will be given to the University of Texas, its history and current resources that we will take full advantage of through tours and assignments.

A number of guest lecturers are being scheduled that will speak on a variety of topics, including art, film, music, photography, Texas high school football and the state penitentiary's death row. These individuals will complement what we ourselves do in class. There will be at least one class field trip and other class related outings.

Grading Policy

There will be daily assignments in the form of short papers or reports. 10%; Mid-term Exam - 30%; 12-15 page Research Paper - 30%; Final Exam - 30%; class attendance and participation are taken into account.

Texts

Katherine Anne Porter: Pale Horse, Pale Rider; Katherine Anne Porter: Three Short Novels; Larry McMurtry: In a Narrow Grave; Edwin Shrake: Blessed McGill; Americo Paredes: With a Pistol in His Hand; Don Graham, editor: Lone Star Literature; Roy Barkley, editor: The Handbook of Texas Music; Richard Holland, editor: The Texas Book: Profiles, History, and Reminiscences of the University

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