Online Class: American Literature Review

Journey Through Time: The Evolution of American Literature

American literature is more than just words on paper; it's a living chronicle of a nation's heartbeat, encapsulating the myriad emotions, events, and ethos of its people across eras. Through its dynamic transitions, this literature not only captures the essence of an evolving nation but also gives voice to countless souls that have shaped its narrative. From the passionate ink of poets to the thoughtful proses of novelists, the U.S. literary canvas is both vast and varied. This course invites you on a comprehensive journey through this riveting tale, from the first scribblings of a nascent nation to the digital musings of our present age.

In recent surveys, a staggering 75% of educators emphasized the crucial link between American literature and the nuanced understanding of U.S. history and culture. Why? Because literature often acts as a mirror, reflecting the zeitgeist of its times—capturing the triumphs, tragedies, and transitions with unparalleled depth.

Course Breakdown:

1. Introduction: Set the stage by exploring the intrinsic link between the nation's evolution and its literary expressions. Delve into the reasons that make studying American literature not just an academic endeavor but a voyage into the soul of the country.

2. Colonial Period to 1750: Discover the earliest voices of a new land. Understand the interplay of native narratives and the burgeoning influence of European settlers. Experience the raw hopes and dreams penned during these foundational years.

3. Revolutionary Period up to 1820: Engage with the fervor of revolution as America sought its identity. From fiery speeches to poignant letters, witness literature that was often a clarion call for change.

4. Writings from 1820 to 1865: This period heralded a rich tapestry of genres. As romanticism bloomed, so did a deeper exploration of the American psyche, society, and the ever-present dream of freedom.

5. The Writings of a Continental Nation, 1865-1900: Post-Civil War, a wounded nation sought healing. Literature from this era not only captures the scars of battle but also the hopes of a unified future.

6. Writings 1900-1920s: As the world shifted with technological advances and global events, American literature responded with introspection and an eager eye on the future, encompassing both the Roaring Twenties and the shadows of World War I.

7. Writings of 1920 to 1945: Navigate the complexities of the Great Depression, the Harlem Renaissance, and the echoes of another World War. Literature in these years is a poignant mix of resilience, despair, and hope.

8. Writings from 1945 to Present: In our modern era, literature has exploded in form and theme. Dive into post-war reflections, the Civil Rights movement, post-modernism, and the digital age's influence, capturing the diverse voices of a contemporary America.

Who Should Attend?

Whether you're a student prepping for exams, an educator seeking a refresher, or simply a curious soul eager to grasp the literary pulse of America, this course caters to all. It promises not just knowledge, but also a newfound appreciation for the written word and its power to shape, reflect, and transform societies.

Conclusion:

American literature isn't a static subject—it's a dynamic story, ever-evolving, reflecting the dreams and despairs, the challenges and changes, of its vibrant nation. This course isn't just about understanding literature; it's about experiencing America—one word at a time. Dive in, and let the pages of history come alive with the whispers of the past and the dialogues of today. Join us in this literary adventure through time.

Courses Frequently Bought Together:

American Civil War

American Government

American Revolutionary War

Course Motivation

This fascinating course focuses on reviewing the literature of America and the people who created it, influenced it, and made it what it is today.  We will examine the earliest days of American literature up to the present time.  Students will learn about the major literary movements – everything from realism to romanticism to transcendentalism and the authors who have contributed significantly to the development of American literature in its many varied aspects.  Students will understand how American literature has evolved to its present form and will understand the basic foundations that today’s American literature is based upon.

American Literature 101 provides an easy-to-follow timeline and contains a brief synopsis of major authors and their works.  In order to understand the history and culture of a nation that has undergone dramatic social, economic, and cultural changes, it’s important to understand the origins of the literature that spawned such tremendous changes.  In addition, students of American literature often find themselves viewing the world around them with an increased understanding of cultural changes out there. 

Whether you are looking for test preparation, reviewing for high school or college, or you are just interested in understanding what American literature is and how it evolved to where it is today, this course will be ideal.  You’ll be able to access online forums and engage in discussions with your fellow online students and you’ll have online access to your instructor, who will be able to answer any and all questions that you might have.

Students of American Literature 101 will be exposed to the history of American literature and see how it applies to the literature of today.  The student will experience the growth of American literature from the colonial period through the Civil War and finally wind up examining the American literature of today.  Students will examine their favorite types of American literature and will learn to trace the evolution of the subject.

Students will also be given the opportunity to examine such areas as:

·        Introduction:  Students will that reading and learning about American literature is essential to understand the history and culture of the American nation – and will see that unlike any other country in the world, American literature was multicultural in its very origins.

·        Colonial period through 1750:  Students will examine how the myths and oral legends of the Native Americans, many of which did not have written languages, influenced American literature.  In addition, students will see how there is a strong Scandinavian influence in early American literature.  From there, the student will see how Puritanism had such a major impact upon the earliest forms of American literature.

·        The writings of the Revolutionary Period up to 1820:  Students will see how the writing during this period was mainly public writing – letters and pamphlets and declarations, as well as speeches and essays.  The student will learn about Abigail Adams and her portrayal of Colonial life in her letters, as well as see how Hector St. John Crvecoeur’s “Letters from an American Farmer” began the start of what was to become the “melting pot” national identity.  Students will also see how Benjamin Franklin’s writings have endured through modern times and discover Thomas Jefferson’s influences in the creation of the Declaration of Independence.

·        The flowering of American Romanticism from 1820-1865:  Students will learn the 4 principal romantic themes in American literature, and will understand what the origins of American Romanticism are.  In addition, the works of such great authors as Washington Irving, James Fenimore Cooper, Herman Melville and Edgar Allen Poe will be examined.

·        The writings of a Continental Nation:  Students will examine Mark Twain and his creations, as well as Jack London, Emily Dickinson and will examine which African-American and Native American writers flourished during this time period. 

·        The writings of 1900-1920:  The student will examine such writers as Robert Frost and Henry James, as well as William Butler Yeats and T.S. Eliot.  In addition, students will examine the Harlem Renaissance and see how it has influenced contemporary works.  The poet Langston Hughes will be discussed, along with the playwright Eugene O’Neill.

·        The writings from 1920 to the present:  Students will examine the works of authors during this period, and see how they impacted today’s culture.

American Literature 101 is a course that is perfect for students, academics, and for anyone who is curious as to how writing today has evolved from early times.  Packed with useful information, in-depth insights, and presented in an interesting and educational way, it’s a must-have course for anyone who seeks to enrich their artistic aspirations.