Course Objectives

The purpose of this course is to offer the students an introduction to African-American literature in a historical context. The students will become familiar with the key issues related to reading and understanding these texts, and will study the significance of the cultural context that influenced them.

Course Description

In this course, we will examine a selection of texts by African-American authors from the mid-1800s to the present. These texts represent a broad spectrum of styles, such as slave narratives, novels, poetry and short-stories. We will analyse the texts as independent works, but will also read them in relationship to each other. There will be an emphasis on the thematic and stylistic similarities and differences between the texts. The cultural-historical context which has motivated the texts is crucial and is indispensable in reading and interpreting the texts. The syllabus also includes essays and critical reviews concerning the best methods for approaching and understanding these texts.

Learning Methods

Lectures and seminars up to 3 hours a week; with the main emphasis on seminars, which will be characterised by discussions and active student participation.

Assessment Methods

Continuous assessment counts for 40% of the final grade; the written examination counts 60%. Both the continuous assessment and final examination must receive passing marks. Grades will be given on a scale from A to F, where E is the lowest passing grade and F represents a failing grade.

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