June 9 - 11: First Week of Class, Summer semester 08 - American Literature

WEEK 1 - WHO IS AN AMERICAN ?

June 9 - Introduction to the course and to literary analysis: what does it mean to close read a text of American literature? What symbols, metaphors, techniques should we look for in a text?

June 11: Defining the New Nation.
Today, we had to read Crevecoeur (309-324), Winthrop (75-86), John Smith (43-57). Studying the images found in each one of these texts, we tried to better understand what Crevecoeur meant by: "He is an American, who, leaving behind him all his ancient prejudices and manners, receives new ones from the new mode of life he has embraced, the new government he obeys, the new rank he holds.  He becomes an American by being received in the broad lap of our great Alma Mater.  Here individuals of all nations are melted into a new race of men, whose labors and posterity will one day cause great changes in the world."—St. John de Crevecoeur.
Winthrop: "For we must consider that we shall be as a citie upon a hill." John Winthrop, "A Model of Christian Charitie"

The discussion involved a definition of characteristic American traits, behaviors, and beliefs. Also, an analysis of what individual could best serve as the image of the "representative American." We discussed some of the complexities and tensions inherent in the American identity; we also considered the significance of our national symbols.