English 312 - Seminar: Seminar: Converts, Criminals and Fugitives: Print Culture of the African Diaspora, 1760–186

This course explores the varied publications produced by people of the African diaspora in the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, and England--early sermons and conversion narratives, criminal confessions, fugitive slave narratives and the black press. The class considers these works in terms of publishing history, editorship (especially women editors), authorship, readership, circulation, advertising, influence, literacy, community building, politics, and geography, and examines the engagements with such topics as religion, law economics, emigration, gender, race, and temperance. Smith’s manuscript and periodical holdings offer a treasure trove of source materials. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required.

[CE] JR/SR only