Introduction to African American Literature

Catalog description

Students will be introduced to African American literature from the late 18th century to the present. The focus of the course is on African American literature as it relates to culture, society, and ideology. Topics such as cultural heritage, structural racism, political struggle for civil and human rights, and issues of gender will be included. Students will read literature including poetry, essays, short stories, drama, and novels from major periods of African American writing that influenced society. The course is designed to heighten awareness of African American literature as a major contribution to American literature.