To what extent does a focus on race offer us an encompassing view of modern America—in the novel or in history more broadly? We’ll be reading four celebrated novels (mostly American, mostly from the 21st century) that together offer a variety of perspectives, both oblique and direct, on matters of race and racism, as well as on a host of related issues. In addition, each novel is formally innovative. What’s the relationship between artistic experimentation and social critique? What’s the difference between discussion of race in a novel and in a work of history or sociology? To what extent should we expect “minority” writers to focus on their own racial heritages? We’ll try to develop interpretations of our texts and from there work out to these larger problems. Core readings: Toni Morrison, Beloved; David Mitchell, Cloud Atlas; Junot Díaz, The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao; Ruth Ozeki, A Tale for the Time Being. In addition, short contextual primary and secondary materials.

This course satisfies the following CURRENT English major/minor requirement: American Literature, Identity/Difference

This course satisfies the following NEW English major/minor requirements: Foundations & Methods 300/400-level, Regions: Americas, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Time: Contemporary/Modern

Course Requirements:

The course requires 1) regular attendance and participation in class discussion, 2) a short oral report on one of the novels, and 3) 2-4 papers totaling 15 pages. The number of papers is up to you. No exams.