Last modified: 31 Jul 2023 11:19
This course examines an important and diverse period in the development of American literature, lasting from the mid-nineteenth century until the 1930s. During the course we will be analysing works by a variety of American writers from this period in their historical, social and political contexts as well as considering the ways in which they pioneered innovative literary forms and techniques.
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | First Term | Credit Points | 30 credits (15 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | Aberdeen | Sustained Study | No |
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During the period covered by this course, the United States of America experienced a both a bitter and bloody Civil War as well as involvement as a major power in World War I. It also accelerated its transformation from a developing rural economy into a major world economy. Additionally, this period witnessed a great deal of turmoil within the United States itself, as American society was divided and altered over the issues of slavery, race, immigration, the status of Native American peoples and the changing role of women in society. These political, social and cultural forces are reflected and commented upon in the varied and often ground-breaking writing of this period, as events spurred a diverse range of writers to find their own distinctive voices amid the tumult of the country taking shape around them. This course explores how each of the featured writers responded to the questions and challenges of their time by developing their artistry and by giving voice to some of the many different perspectives that have helped to shape American literary identity.
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
Alternative Assessment
1x 1,500-word Written Analysis of a theme or idea explored in the work of an author from the first four weeks of the course (30%)
1x 2,500-word Comparative Essay on any two authors not already written about in the first exercise (50%)
SAM (10%)
1x Electronic Course Journal submitted to Turnitin (10%)
Alternative Resit Assessment
1 x 3,000-word Resit Essay
There are no assessments for this course.
| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Factual | Remember | ILO’s for this course are available in the course guide. |
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