ENH2410

Puritans and Sinners: The American Tradition

(ART)

M Ackland

8 points + 2 hours per week + First and second semester + Clayton, Caulfield

Synopsis: The subject is an introduction to some of the major writers in American literature and an exploration of the concept of a national literary identity. Beginning in the nineteenth century when the interplay of inherited European cultural forms and a burgeoning literary nationalism was at its most fruitful, the subject ranges from the Puritan heritage of the great New England writers through to American postmodernism, and includes the contribution of black American writing.

Assessment: Essay (3000 words): 50% + Class test (1500 words): 30% + Class paper (1500 words) and participation; 20% + Students whose written work and participation are satisfactory will be excused an examination