ENGL 348 American Manhood (3 SH)

This course explores conceptions of manhood in US literature since the nation's establishment, featuring texts by writers of diverse ethnic backgrounds, including Thomas Jefferson, Samson Occom, Frederick Douglass, Langston Hughes, Lorraine Hansberry, Khaled Hosseini, Gene Luen Yang, and Martin Espada. It also focuses on the relationship of selected literary works to the representation and construction of gender roles in the cultures from which they emerge. We will consider writers' articulations of their experiences within their social and ideological contexts, as well as the material conditions under which they write. A community-learning (CL) designate course, "American Manhood" challenges students to be involved in community settings that relate to course subject matter. Expectations include engagement in critical analysis of community issues and synthesis of classroom-based knowledge and personal experience. (Spring 2024)
Core: CL, LI