AFR 286(F) Constructing Black Lives in Film and Literature (Same as Comparative Literature 286 and 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: Steve James' Hoop Dreams; Marlon Riggs' Tongues Untied; June Cross's Secret Daughter; Cheryl Dunye's Watermelon Woman; and Elia Kazan's Pinky. 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, James Weldon Johnson, and June Jordan.
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