Immigrant and Refugee Literature of the US

Catalog description

In the 21st century, the experience, exclusion, and plight of immigrants and refugees have become sources of cultural and political tension across the globe. Taking the United States as its primary focus, this course examines the literature produced by immigrants and refugees. The course interrogates terms and concepts such as "immigrant," "refugee," and especially "American." It also grapples with vexing questions about immigration. What does it mean to say that the US is a "nation of immigrants" when so many are opposed to immigration? How is the perception of immigrants and refugees created and distorted by our mass media, political discourse, and cultural politics? And, most importantly, how might the study of literature challenge biases and fears about the recently arrived? The course will answer these and other questions through the careful analysis and production of texts. Offered occasionally.