AFR 286(F) Constructing Black Lives in Film and Literature (Same as English 286)*

In this course, we will analyze 20th and 21st century documentary and biographical films, autobiographies, and memoirs to investigate the different ways in which African-American men's and women's life narratives are constructed. In particular, we will consider the impact of historical events and processes upon identities, the ways identities are performed, and the mutually constitutive relationship among race, gender, and sexuality. Films to be analyzed may include: Marlon Riggs' Tongues Untied and Black Is, Black Ain't; Isaac Julien's Looking for Langston; Cheryl Dunye's Watermelon Woman; Spike Lee's Malcolm X; Brian Gibson's What's Love Got to Do With It?; June Cross's Secret Daughter; and Clint Eastwood's Bird. Some class time will also be spent in the Williams College Museum of Art to critique visual works in terms of identity construction. Readings may include selections by Anne Moody, Richard Wright, Rosemary L. Bray, Audre Lorde, Jill Nelson, June Jordan, and John Edgar Wideman.
Format: seminar/discussion. Requirements: Consistent participation in class discussions, brief written responses to texts, and four 5- to 7-page essays.
No prerequisites, but prior 100- or 200-level Africana Studies and English courses will help. Enrollment limit: 20 (expected: 15). Preference given to sophomore and junior (potential) Africana Studies concentrators or (potential) English majors.

Hour: WINGARD