ENGL 338(F) Literature of the American Renaissance

Concentrating primarily on the last two decades before the Civil War, this course will introduce students to the writing of what is often referred to as the "American Renaissance." In addition to emphasizing close, strong readings of these texts, we will also delve into some of the important debates surrounding our critical understandings of the period. Among the issues we will explore are the formal innovations that distinguish this exciting literary moment, the influence of transcendentalism on literature and on visions of the American self, debates over citizenship and over what makes one "American," and slavery's challenge to American values. We will also examine how those works, thought of today as "classic" American texts, were regarded during the period, and consider the ways in which judgments of literary merit are related to other social and cultural values. Readings will include selections from the following writers: Irving, Hawthorne, Poe, Emerson, Fuller, Thoreau, Douglass, Melville, Stowe, Jacobs, Whitman, and Dickinson. Requirements: regular journal entries, two short papers, and a 10- to 12-page final paper. Prerequisite: English 101. Enrollment limited to 25. (1800-1900)

Hour:  KENT