Comparative Literature 691RT - S-ImmigrantTales&TrialsofMigr

In this course students will reflect on migrants' experience of translating and being translated in a newly occupied space, the momentary or sustained shifts in identity, the glimpses of belonging or not belonging, and the sense of the contingency of place that can be triggered by these experiences. Though the main focus will be on migration to the United States, the readings and class discussions will also cover other areas of the globe. The main objective of the course is to examine the similarities and differences of migrants' experiences across time and to capture these experiences through migrants' own accounts. The readings combine historical, autobiographical, fictional and ethnographic materials. We will also examine the migration of people within nations or regions, and consider the motives of and unique challenges for internal migrants. Finally, we will consider the role of technology and the implications for the relative "ease" of mobility in the late 20th and early 21st centuries compared to earlier decades. The seminars will combine lectures, audio and visual materials and active student participation. Grades are based on class presentations and participation (20%), 4 five page response papers (40%) and a final paper (40%).