Course Design:

ENG 3403: One Major Writer

Dr. Williams
Phone: (718) 260-5789
Jwilliams@citytech.cuny.edu
Office: NAM 503
Office Hours: Wed 4-6pm

The purpose of this course is to read, analyze, and discuss the life and works of James Baldwin.  Throughout the semester we will read some of the most socially impacting literature ever written. We will examine both fiction and non-fiction, unearthing some of the most sensitive issues of the twentieth century, as well as the turbulent life of the author himself.  Together, we will learn to metatextualize the meaning beneath Baldwin’s words, providing insight into the historical worlds in which he existed and wrote about.  At the same time, we will follow Baldwin’s “flight” from America and his writing while existing abroad as an expatriate.

With regard to the readings—in an attempt to develop stronger arguments and clarity regarding the issues discussed—there will be directed research writing assignments (response papers).  We will also develop a clear, concise, grammatically correct MLA style research paper based on assigned paper topics. This research paper will include an outline and an abstract that must be approved before the paper project and posted onto our OpenLab page. Additionally, we will have exams to see how we are processing the materials.  With the assistance of both the primary and secondary texts, we will review the fundamentals of historical writing, and learn to condense our thoughts regarding the author’s subject matter.  Participation is both essential and required for a successful semester.  IF WE DEMONSTRATE THAT WE ARE NOT PREPAPRED FOR OUR DAILY READINGS, QUIZZES WILL BE IMPLEMENTED INTO THE COURSE DESIGN.  The exams can only be taken on assigned dates, and the papers and assignments are to be submitted at the beginning of class on the dates due.   LATE WORK IS NOT AN OPTION.

NOTE: This course will examine varied themes—sex, sexuality, religion, Class, racism, violence, self-hatred, slavery, oppression, love—and requires the ability to engage in complex and controversial discussions maturely.