Since the course functions as a substitute for the Core Seminar, the assignments will be similar. In two papers , I expect each student to pick a piece of American Popular culture and to explore its possible meanings using the tools and concepts we have learned from the articles we read, and addressing the themes we discover in books and films. Each student will notify me of the choice of topic. No two students may pick the same topic.
Topics are given on a first come, first serve basis.
In two exams , I expect students to demonstrate a solid grasp of what we have read by answering an in-class essay question for one hour. Students will be given some choice of essay topics. In quizzes , students will demonstrate that they have done the reading. Quizzes will be very frequent.