21st-Century Global Science Fiction.

Catalog description

Contemporary global literature includes twentieth- and twenty-first-century literatures, other than British and American, either written in English or read in translation. Readings represent a variety of cultures and belief systems and include world regional and diasporic literatures such as African, Asian, Latin American, Middle Eastern, etc. Emphasis is placed on interpreting literary texts in relation to their cultural, political, and historical contexts, as well as the conventions of literary movements and genres such as postcolonialism, magical realism, science fiction, etc. Through readings, discussions, and several written assignments, students will expand their awareness, understanding, sensitivity, and empathy in regard to differences between other cultures’ perspectives and their own. Close reading exercises and other scaffolded writing assignments will strengthen skills in close reading and literary analysis, culminating in a thesis-driven essay interpreting one or more works of literature. Additional assignments may include a group research presentation, an author interview writing project, and a final essay exam. By the end of the semester, students will have produced 12-15 pages of polished writing. Prerequisites: ENG 102 or permission of the Division Dean.