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This course will introduce you to American writing from the late 19th through the 20th century, with emphasis on the literature as an expression of the cultural and intellectual life of the times. In particular, we will examine texts that explore intersections between race, gender, sexuality and class as they shape individual identity, social relations and national identity. In doing so, we will examine how literature responds to, expresses and challenges the idea of “the American Dream.“ In examining this history, we will also think about how the ideas, words and stories from the past might resonate with our experiences and struggles in the world today.

This course will introduce you to American writing from the late 19th through the 20th century, with emphasis on the literature as an expression of the cultural and intellectual life of the times. In particular, we will examine texts that explore intersections between race, gender, sexuality and class as they shape individual identity, social relations and national identity. In doing so, we will examine how literature responds to, expresses and challenges the idea of “the American Dream.“ In examining this history, we will also think about how the ideas, words and stories from the past might resonate with our experiences and struggles in the world today.