INTRODUCTION TO AFRICAN AMERICAN DRAMATIC LITERATURE

AFRICAN/AFROAMER 813

Historical and critical study of the classics of contemporary African and Caribbean literary drama written in English. Thematic issues include the African encounter with Europe, postcolonial disillusionment and the betrayal of ideals, and also stylistic matters as the relationship(s) between traditional drama and other performance forms, and modern drama written in European languages. Considers theories and critical approaches to understanding the cross-continental drama traditions and their contexts. Examines the long histories of cultural, performance, and theatrical relationships between Africa and the Caribbean and how the relationships have been shaped by race and economics, past and present. Considers and questions conventional claims made by others and your own assumptions; stimulates analytical thinking about identity.

AFROAMER 271

Introductory level course on specific topics in African American culture.

THEATRE 329

Introduction to historical, social and political contexts of African-American artistic expression in theatre and performance. Offers critical analyses of theatre, films, and/or dance forms that reflect cultural values, ideologies and performance aesthetics rooted in African-American and West African traditions.

AFROAMER 227

Analysis of major works of African American fiction, drama, poetry and autobiography. Attention given to historical, cultural and biographical contexts.

AFRICAN/AFROAMER 413

A critical study of the major works.