English: American Literature I (A)

About ENGL 1122 A

Selected texts from the beginnings to the Civil War. Explores periodization, genre, key terms and concepts through close reading and critical analysis. Fulfills major requirements; open to non-majors.

Notes

Open to degree and PACE students

Section Description

In 1844, Ralph Waldo Emerson began his famous essay “Experience” by asking, “where do we find ourselves?” This course begins with the same question and looks to the myths, dreams, promises, and nightmares which form the foundations of the literary traditions of the United States of America. We will survey the key works from three periods: the Colonial Era, the era of the Revolution and Early Republic, and the Antebellum Era. As a reading intensive course, students will learn and practice the art of paying attention to the relationship between form, content, and historical context. Readings may be drawn from the works of Bradstreet, Winthrop, Edwards, Rowlandson, Franklin, Occom, Crèvecœur, Wheatley, Jefferson, Bryant, Longfellow, Hawthorne, Sigourney, Emerson, Stowe, Douglass, and Melville. This course fullfills the CCCC AH2 (understanding and analysis of literature) requirement.

Section Expectation

This is a reading-intensive, survey, course. Success in this class depends on serious engagement with the reading and other course material. Students should expect to actively engage in lectures and discussion. Love of reading and of the past will be helpful!

Evaluation

Evaluations are designed to help students master the material. These may include participation, section exams, close reading exercises, social annotation assignments, or a short essay. Attendance is mandatory.

Important Dates

Note: These dates may change before registration begins.

Courses may be cancelled due to low enrollment. Show your interest by enrolling.

Resources

• Parking
• PACE Course Pricing
• Textbooks