ENG-224 - Diverse Voices in Short Stories and Poetry

3 credits

This course is designed to cover short stories and poetry from authors of diverse ethnic backgrounds. Close reading of works in various genres will be used to spark both discussion of and written responses to the reading assignments. Some of the topics which will be covered are: identity, family dynamics, cultural interactions, assimilation, economic status, employment, and perceptions of mainstream America at various points in history. The course will require students to explore biographical information about the authors (such as Judith Ortiz Cofer, E.L. Doctorow, Louise Erdrich, Beena Kamlani, Toni Morrison, and Amy Tan) in order to provide additional context to the readings and to encourage more active participation in discussion and writing. Coursework will require student use of critical thinking strategies to analyze character, plot, symbolism, and word choice. To foster greater inclusion, students will also be invited to and assisted in locating and sharing works from authors of their own background(s) if they are not represented in the materials already chosen for the course.

Prerequisite(s): ENG 102 (minimum grade C-).

Mass Transfer Block: Credits earned in this course are counted towards the MassTransfer Block Humanities and Fine Arts requirements.