A multidisciplinary exploration of different research methods and theoretical perspectives (Marxist, feminist, myth-symbol, cultural studies) in American studies. Prerequisite: AMS 201 or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to American studies major

An introduction to the methods and concerns of American Studies. We will draw on literature, painting, architecture, landscape design, social and cultural criticism, and popular culture to explore such topics as responses to economic change, ideas of nature and culture, America's relationship to Europe, the question of race, the roles of women, family structure, social class, and urban experience. Open to all first and second year students, as well as to junior and senior majors.

An introduction to the methods and concerns of American Studies. We will draw on literature, painting, architecture, landscape design, social and cultural criticism, and popular culture to explore such topics as responses to economic change, ideas of nature and culture, America's relationship to Europe, the question of race, the roles of women, family structure, social class, and urban experience. Open to all first and second year students, as well as to junior and senior majors.

An introduction to the methods and concerns of American Studies. We will draw on literature, painting, architecture, landscape design, social and cultural criticism, and popular culture to explore such topics as responses to economic change, ideas of nature and culture, America's relationship to Europe, the question of race, the roles of women, family structure, social class, and urban experience. Open to all first and second year students, as well as to junior and senior majors.

The colloquium represents an interdisciplinary capstone experience for students concentrating in African studies. Drawing on the resources of faculty in the Five College African Studies Council, we will seek to synthesize and productively utilize the Africa-oriented coursework, study abroad, internships, and research experiences of class participants.

By permission of the department, for junior and senior majors.

Topics course. Ida B. Wells (1862-1931) was a black investigative journalist who began, in 1892, the nation's first anti-lynching campaign. In her deconstruction of the reasons for, and response to, violence--and particularly lynching--she also uncovered the myriad components of racism in a formative period of race relations that depended on ideas of emerging social sciences, gender identity, and sexuality. The course will follow Wells's campaign, and in the process study the profound intersections of race, class, gender and sexuality which have shaped American culture and history.

This seminar will focus on Toni Morrison?s literary production. In reading her novels, essays, lectures, and interviews, we will pay particular attention to three things: her interest in the epic anxieties of American identities; her interest in form, language, and theory; and her study of love. This seminar will focus on Toni Morrison?s literary production. In reading her novels, essays, lectures, and interviews, we will pay particular attention to three things: her interest in the epic anxieties of American identities; her interest in form, language, and theory; and her study of love.

A study of the history of free blacks from the 17th century to the abolition of slavery in 1865. A major problem created by the establishment of slavery based on race by the 1660s was what was to be the status of free blacks. Each local and state government addressed the political, economic, and even religious questions raised by having free blacks in a slave society. This course will address a neglected theme in the history of the Afro-American experience, i.e., the history of free blacks before the passage of the thirteenth amendment. Recommended background: AAS 117.

An interdisciplinary study of Afro-American history beginning with the Brown Decision in 1954. Particular attention will be given to the factors which contributed to the formative years of "Civil Rights Movements," Black films and music of the era, the rise of "Black Nationalism," and the importance of Afro-Americans in the Vietnam War. Recommended background: survey course in Afro-American history, American history, or Afro-American literature. Not open to first-year students. Enrollment limited to 40.