Texts and Meaning
An introduction to the study of the structures and methods by which texts create and convey meaning. Texts and approaches will be determined by individual instructors, but all emphasize reflective, critical reading, as well as text-centered discussions and written assignments.
Development of effective written and oral communication skills, critical thinking, research strategies, collaboration, and professional and ethical behavior in workplace environments. Job search and interviewing strategies will also be covered.
Emerson to Dickinson
Study of American literature from Emerson through Dickinson. Focusing on such writers as Douglass, Poe, Hawthorne, Melville, Thoreau, Stowe, Whitman, consideration of how these writers worry over the possibility of living well through their considerations of such concerns as their relationships to creation, to God, to evil, to readers too busy to give letters157 their time, and to an expanding, divided federation compromised by a constitution that allows promotes slavery and disenfranchises women.
American Novel to WW I
Examination of the development of the American novel through its adaptations of such sub-genres as the Gothic novel, the historical romance, the social protest novel, the picaresque novel, the realistic novel of manners, and the naturalistic novel. Authors might include Cooper, Hawthorne, Stowe, James, Twain, Norris, Chopin, and Cather.
American Novel Since WW I
Examination of modern and post-modern novels, emphasizing how these works reflect cultural assumptions about social class, race, ethnicity, gender roles, politics, technology, religion, art and entertainment. Authors include: Anderson, Fitzgerald, Hemingway, Faulkner, Hurston, Malamud, Kesey, Walker, and Tan.
Senior Seminar in English
Course topic changes with each offering.
American Dream Ideal & Reality
An exploration of the concept of America as a place of political and religious freedom, social and economic mobility, and opportunities to achieve personal fulfillment. Students will analyze both literary texts and contemporary culture.
Issues in Women & Gender Stds
Focus on both classical and contemporary issues in Women's and Gender Studies. Survey of feminist theory and historical developments in the women's movement, it provides a foundation for the understanding of contemporary women's issues, including education, family, health, religion, economics and politics.