American Literature, Culture, and Society (ENG121)

Content

Reading and analysis of selected works of American literature from different genres (novels, short stories, poetry, drama, essays, etc.) and historical periods that address key developments and issues that have shaped American society. Emphasis will be placed on understanding how literary authors and works relate meaningfully to significant aesthetic, historical and socio-cultural contexts.

American Literature, Culture, and Society (ALCS) focuses on interpreting literature from and about the United States of America, written during different historical periods, and understanding its continued artistic and sociocultural significance. By analyzing a range of intellectually serious and formally skillful literary works by important American writers, students will explore how texts convey ideas and debates relevant in contemporary society. General topics and themes may include: critical thinking and ethical awareness; creativity and innovation; ecological and environmental awareness; socio-cultural identities; and democracy and social engagement.

ALCS aims to develop students' critical understanding of American culture and society by situating literary texts, meaningfully, in relevant social, historical, and cultural contexts. In the process, students will develop practical critical, creative, and interpretive skills; learn why the literary arts are a valuable resource for living; and enhance their ability to communicate effectively in English.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

After completing the course, the student will have a basic understanding of:

• important American authors and works of literature and how they have contributed to the USA’s diverse literary tradition
• key aesthetic and formal features of a literary work and how help convey different perspectives, beliefs, and thematic issues
• significant relationships between works of American literature and relevant historical, cultural, and social contexts (e.g. literary mediations of important historical events and sociocultural debates)
• the diverse sociocultural situations, traditions, and philosophies that inform American literature

Skills

After completing the course, the student will be able to:

• analyze American literature from different perspectives, historical periods, and literary genres
• interpret texts by conducting close readings and using relevant techniques and approaches from literary and cultural studies
• understand the artistic and sociocultural significance of selected literary texts and authors and reflect upon their contemporary relevance

General competence

After completing the course, the student will be able to:

• use correct, varied, and precise English to participate in informed conversations about ideas and issues in literary and cultural studies
• analyze what specialists and experts have written or said, then summarize their ideas, arguments, and assumptions
• demonstrate critical, analytic, and interpretive skills using formal English

Required prerequisite knowledge

Recommended prerequisites

Exam

Coursework requirements

Course teacher(s)

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Study Adviser:

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Method of work

Open for

Course assessment

Literature