History and Memory in Africana Literature

Focuses on the close reading of nine works by writers of African descent - encompassing a variety of eras, forms and genres, stretching from the slave narrative to more contemporary settings. The thrust is to examine how each writer wrestles with issues of history and memory, with particular attention to the sometimes explicit, sometimes implicit interest in ideas and modes of expression that are rooted in African culture. Enrollment limited to 20 sophomores, juniors, and seniors; preference given to Africana Studies and English concentrators.