This course is designed for M.A. and Ph.D. students specializing in the teaching of composition and rhetoric. Our main concern will be to investigate how various histories are motivated, narrated, documented, and represented to us as truthful. At the same time, we will consider how these histories influence our understanding of our professional identities, including our responsibilities as teachers and scholars. Equally important, I hope we can define more carefully the purpose and value of composition studies itself, especially in terms of the commitments which make our work meaningful. The Politics of Composition , Susan Miller Feminine Principles and Women's Experience in American Composition and Rhetoric , ed.
Regular attendance is required.
Participation in class discussion should be based on thoughtful advance preparation as well as careful consideration of others' views. Please note that late work cannot be accepted and incompletes will not be given.