This course will examine texts by some of the most influential African-American writers, analyzing the common themes and narrative strategies that constitute what may be defined as an African-American literary tradition. Authors to be considered include: W. E. B. DuBois, Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, Richard Wright, Ralph Ellison, Toni Morrison, and Ishmael Reed. Requirements: a series of quizzes, three short papers, and possibly a final exam.
Prerequisite: a 100-level English course, except 150. Enrollment limited to 35. Two sections. (Post-1900)