ENGH 352: Topics in Ethnic American Literature

ENGH 352-001: Asian American Literature
(Spring 2012)

04:30 PM to 07:10 PM W

Section Information for Spring 2012

This course will provide an overview of some of the central works of literature that have been categorized as “Asian American.” We will pay close attention to the social, historical and political conditions under which Asian American texts have been produced, such as the Chinese Exclusion Era, the annexation of Hawaii, the Japanese American internment, the Korean War, the India-Pakistan Partition, the 1992 L.A uprisings, and the contemporary emergence of the “ethnoburb.” We will study novels, autobiographies, essays, dramas, poetry, film and literary criticism, as well as read material from history, sociology and literary criticism that will enhance our understanding of the literature. We will explore major themes like assimilation, racism, community, segregation and the intersection of Asian American racial identity with class, gender and sexuality, through authors who present diverse and often contentious positions on these issues. No previous knowledge of Asian American literature is required. You are encouraged to draw from what you have learned in other courses for your assignments and class discussions. Authors include Maxine Hong Kingston, Monica Sone, Chang-rae Lee, Nam Le, Li-Young Lee, and Jhumpa Lahiri.

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Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 3

Studies particular ethnic American literatures. Focuses on literatures such as Asian American, Native American, Latino/a, Arab American, or Jewish American. Notes: May be repeated when topic (expressed by course subtitle and content) is different. Offered by English. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Recommended Prerequisite: Satisfaction of University requirements in 100-level English and in Mason Core literature.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

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