Autobiography and History

(4 Credits)

This course is concerned with historians as autobiographers, and autobiographers as historians. Critically and thoughtfully reading a range of works that combine history with personal experience, we will explore the ways in which scholars and writers invoke autobiography in the writing of history, and the ways in which autobiographers serve as historians. Around the seminar table, we will pay attention to research, sources, evidence, method, argument, interpretation, intention, audience, memory, style, and voice. Students will also make their own forays into history and autobiography, sharing their work and reflecting on one another’s efforts. Although our readings focus mainly on United States history, students’ own writings can focus on history anywhere in the world.