This survey of American Literature will examine the most influential and significant writings of the United States, which were produced between the 15th century and the Civil War. The course is organized thematically, rather than chronologically. As such the texts we will read present the emergence of both a nation and its identity.

This course will survey American literature from the post-Civil War era to the present day. We will focus on turning points in American history, mainly brought about by wars, and the subsequent literary movements that took place as a result. Thus, after the Civil War, realism was the dominant mode in fiction; WWI gave rise to Modernism; and WWII, to Postmodernism. The course also emphasizes diversity, including racial, gender, ethnic, and class perspectives. As we discuss works on the syllabus, we will not only explore the themes of the course, but we will also focus on thinking and writing critically. Course requirements include three 5-page papers, ten online blog/journal responses, and a final exam.

This semester-long webcourse surveys American Literature from the end of the Civil War to the present. It explores key literary movements such as regionalism, realism, modernism, and postmodernism, considering the ways in which each author responds to and reflects the changing world around them. We will consider the texts in their eras and in conjunction with major themes, ultimately asking what is “American Literature?”