English 158A - Winter, 2014

The American Novel to 1900

Class Information

Instructor: Page, Ryan
CRN: 84130
Time: TR 3:10-4:30
Location: 217 Olson

Description

In this course, we will consider the evolution of the American novel from its inception in the 1790's to the end of the nineteenth century. We will look at works ranging from the sensational and historical romances of the 1800-1840 period; a unique utopian fantasy from the middle of the century; an unusual example of the slave narrative; and three later works of realism, naturalism, and impressionism, each hugely influential in their historical moment. The added twist of this particular course is in its focus on female protagonists (or antagonists), who take center stage in all but one of the chosen works.

Grading

Paper 1: 20%
Paper 2: 35%
Group Presentations: 15%
Final: 15%
Quizzes, Attendance, Participation: 15%

Texts

Charlotte Temple, Susanna Rowson
Hope Leslie, Catharine Maria Sedgwick
Blithedale Romance, Nathaniel Hawthorne
Our Nig, Harriet E. Wilson
The Rise of Silas Lapham, William Dean Howells
Maggie: A Girl of the Streets, Stephen Crane
What Maisie Knew, Henry James