African and African American Studies

Literature both expresses and explores identity, of which race is an essential component. This course considers the ways that historical and cultural notions of race shape literary narratives, as well as the ways that notions of race operate to constrain and/or liberate literary creativity. Thematic topics vary. Emphasis on critical approaches and the writing of textual analysis.

Christopher Columbus’ 1492 voyage created the first sustained link between the eastern and western Atlantic, opening new worlds of possibility, transformation, and unforeseen consequences that continue to reverberate today. This course explores the history of the Atlantic World, and the peoples from Europe, Africa, and the Americas who lived it. Topics include encounters, cultural adaptations, slavery, circulation, and revolutions.

The Civil War was not something that happened to us; it was something we did to ourselves. In this course we explore why a rational, idealistic people slid into this fratricidal barbarism that killed one out of every fifty Americans. We think about slavery’s impact and legacy. We ponder the concept of a “good war.” We consider what the war and its aftermath solved, worsened, and bequeathed to us, undone.

From the western Sahel to the central savannahs to the Swahili coast, Africa is as diverse in its regional history as it is in its geography. This course will investigate the distinct histories of these different regions, as well as the connections between them and to wider Indian Ocean, Atlantic, and trans-Saharan networks.

Societal trends, culture, and popular musical styles in the United States beginning from the 1890s to present day. Genres covered include ragtime, blues, jazz, rock and roll, pop, and hip-hop.

An exploration of the challenges and obstacles facing the developing countries in this region. The course is structured to address a series of controversial issues such as: Why are some countries developing rapidly while others remain stagnant? Are rates of poverty, hunger, or other indicators of social wellbeing improving over time in countries that post economic gains? What roles, if any, should the United States or other industrialized countries play in providing technology, foreign aid, or other forms of assistance? Topics will include population growth, the emerging roles of women, the impact of transnational corporations and international trade, destruction of natural habitats, and eco-tourism. Students develop case studies of a particular country in the region and may choose to participate in a mock international forum.

This course examines the development of Black Feminist Theory in Sociology, starting in the 1800s and going to the present day. The concept of “intersectionality” came from this theoretical tradition, so students will learn both about the history of Black Feminist thinkers and applications in today’s world, including various social movements (feminist, civil rights, #BLM, #MeToo).