Some knowledge of the American literary tradition, specifically as represented by Poe, Hawthorne, Melville, etc. will be helpful, since we will be making frequent reference to the social and literary context in which the works developed. However, we will also be studying American women's authorship in its own right, as we consider the relationship of nineteenth-century American women's literature to the several traditions out of which it arises and which it helps to define. Our first work will be an early American bestseller, written by a woman who had emigrated from England. Later works will show the growing concern with such issues as slavery, class, poverty, national expansion, and Indian removals. The fascinating history of nineteenth century American women, and the conditions of their lives, will be not only in the background but evident in the novels.
Evaluation includes class participation and papers, as specified below.
The form of the final evaluation will be negotiated. We will follow the schedule listed after the requirements in this syllabus. Please note that extensions are not automatic and must be arranged with me ahead of time. Questions, notes, passages, and issues are always productive material for conversation. Each Tuesday, at the beginning of class, each of you should turn in either a one-page critical response or research item.