American Literature

In this course students study American literary voices from the nineteenth century through modern times. During the first semester, we examine texts which have shaped the emergence of American literature from the old forms and traditions of Europe. Our study moves from American Romanticism to Realism as the literature of the new nation reflected the social and political issues of our turbulent history. The second semester focuses entirely on the modern era, exploring time-honored themes evoked by our greatest contemporary playwrights, poets, and writers of fiction. The study of literature mirrors the social, cultural, and political issues of the past century from the Jazz Age of the 1920s through the Depression Era and War Years, the conservative 1950s, and the turbulent 1960s to the end of the century and beyond. The growth and refinement of analytical and personal writing skills is the overarching goal for the year, which also includes drafting a personal statement for college admissions.