Course Objectives

The introductory course in American Studies is designed to increase the students’ insight into the main trends in American literature, culture and society from the 1600s to the present.

Course Description

The course will give the students insight into American values, institutions and historical development, with the primary emphasis on texts from the last century. The syllabus consists of literary texts, films, art and various types of non-fiction. The fictional texts are selected with the intention of representing central authorship and principal themes, in addition to reflecting the social conditions which inspired them. The syllabus texts will also provide a basis for elementary knowledge and practice in text criticism, that is, the student will learn, to a reasonable degree, to discuss the texts using appropriate professional terminology and methods. Through encounters with art and other cultural expressions, the students will develop a familiarity with the language which will be useful in teaching and other forms of mediation. Emphasis will be placed on the interpretation of texts and how they may be used in the educational system. Courses 2003 and 2004 in combination comprise the American component of the one-year programme in English.

Learning Methods

The lectures will provide background and a general view of a broad field, while the seminar studies will activate the students, allow them to explore the verbal aspects of English and to discuss the individual texts from the syllabus. As part of the continuous assessment, the students will work on written exercises and/or oral presentations. The students will be expected to participate in at least 80% of the seminars.

Assessment Methods

Continuous assessment of the course includes examinations and/or assignments which will count for 40% of the final grade. The final written examination will count for 60%. Both the continuous assessment and the final examination must receive passing marks in order for the student to pass the course.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean