American Literature Syllabus

American Literature Syllabus

American Literature Syllabus

Introduction to American Literature Syllabus

Welcome to the American Literature course, a journey through the rich and diverse literary landscape that has shaped the cultural and intellectual fabric of the United States. This syllabus is designed to immerse you in the pivotal moments, voices, and movements that define American literature from its origins to the contemporary era.

Throughout this course, we will explore the foundational texts that laid the groundwork for American literary expression, examining how writers grappled with the complexities of their time. From the oral traditions of Native American storytelling to the transcendentalist musings of Emerson and Thoreau, and from the vivid realism of Mark Twain to the vibrant voices of the Harlem Renaissance, we will traverse the varied terrains of American literary history.

Our discussions will delve into the social, political, and cultural contexts that influenced each period, fostering a deeper understanding of how literature reflects and shapes the American experience. Through critical analysis, thoughtful discussions, and engaging assignments, we aim to cultivate not only an appreciation for the written word but also a nuanced understanding of the diverse voices that contribute to the ever-evolving narrative of American literature.

As we embark on this literary exploration, be prepared to discover the power of storytelling, the nuances of different literary movements, and the profound impact literature has had on shaping the American identity. Let our exploration of American literature be a gateway to critical thinking, cultural awareness, and a lifelong appreciation for the written word.

Unit 1: Foundations of American Literature

Week 1-2: Native American Oral Tradition: Exploration of Native American creation myths and oral storytelling traditions.

Reading: Selections from Navajo creation myths, and discussions on the significance of oral traditions.

Week 3-4: Early Colonial Literature: Study of Puritanical sermons and writings, including excerpts from Jonathan Edwards.

Reading: "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" and analysis of Puritanical literature.

Unit 2: Revolutionary Voices

Week 5-6: Revolutionary Literature: Examination of political pamphlets and writings from the Revolutionary period.

Reading: Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" and discussions on its impact.

Unit 3: Transcendentalism and the American Renaissance:

Week 7-8: Transcendentalist Philosophy: Exploration of transcendentalist ideas through the works of Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Reading: "Self-Reliance" and discussions on individualism and nature.

Week 9-10: American Renaissance Prose and Poetry: Analysis of prose and poetry from the American Renaissance, including works by Nathaniel Hawthorne and Walt Whitman.

Reading: Excerpts from "The Scarlet Letter" and Whitman's poems.

Unit 4: Realism and the Civil War Era

Week 11-12: Realism in American Literature: Introduction to the realist movement and its impact on literature.

Reading: Mark Twain's "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and discussions on realism.

Unit 5: Harlem Renaissance and 20th-Century Voices

Week 13-14: Harlem Renaissance: Exploration of African American literature during the Harlem Renaissance.

Reading: Zora Neale Hurston's "Their Eyes Were Watching God" and discussions on identity and empowerment.

Week 15-16: Postmodern Perspectives: Introduction to postmodern literature and its themes.

Reading: Selections from Don DeLillo's "White Noise" and discussions on contemporary American society.

Assessment and Evaluation

Midterm Exam: Comprehensive test covering foundational concepts and works.

Literary Analysis Essays: Students will be required to write essays analyzing specific works studied in class.

Class Participation: Active engagement in discussions, group activities, and presentations.

Final Project

Research and Presentation: Students will research and present on a chosen American author or literary movement, connecting it to broader historical and cultural contexts.

Conclusion:

This American Literature Syllabus provides a structured approach to studying American literature, covering key periods, movements, and influential works while encouraging critical thinking and analysis. 0 0 0. American Literature Syllabus

Critical Essays on American Literature:

1. Father of American Literature
2. African American Literature Books
3. Realism in American Literature
4. Early American Literature
5. American Literature - An Overview
6. How Are American Literature and American Identity Interrelated
7. What Impact Did Poe Have on American Literature
8. American Literature Syllabi
9. 19th Century American Literature
10. Best American Literature
11. Great American Literature
12. American Literature Timeline
13. American Literature Periods
14. American Literature Class
15. Health Anthology of American Literature
16. American Literature Textbooks
17. Romanticism in American Literature
18. How Did Archetype of Devil Symbolize American Literature
19. Latin American Literature
20. Apologia American Literature
21. Is American Literature Hard
22. Classic African American Literature
23. American Literature Antholotges
24. Survey of American Literature
25. 20th Century American Literature
26. American Literature Reading List
27. My Perspectives of American Literature
28. Modernism First Developed in American Literature
29. American Literature Books for High School
30. American Literature Example
31. American Literature Journal.