Major Authors (360-0-20)

Instructors

Martha Biondi

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-435: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

This discussion-based course will take up the nonfiction writings of acclaimed novelist, playwright, poet, and essayist James Baldwin, emphasizing works from the 1950s to the 1970s. We will explore the social and political thought of Baldwin focusing on issues of race and racism, gender and sexuality, nationalism and national identity, justice, religion, the vocation of the artist, and the meaning of history. We will conclude the seminar with Ta-Nehisi Coates' Between the World and Me, a long essay inspired by Baldwin's The Fire Next Time. You will be asked to write your own nonfiction Baldwin-inspired essay.

Class Attributes

Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area
U.S. Perspectives on Power, Justice, and Equity