Studies in American Literature (471-0-20)

Topic

Herman Melville's Moby-Dick

Instructors

Jay Grossman

Meeting Info

University Hall 418: Thurs 2:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

There are few examples in world literature of bigger, more capacious, or more ambitious novels than Herman Melville's Moby-Dick (1851). This graduate seminar contends that an understanding of U.S. literary, cultural, and political history requires engaging seriously with this novel, its influence, and its role in the history of literary criticism. Among the topics our scrupulous reading of the novel will explore: political and democratic theory; race, ethnicity, and multiculturalism; slavery in the United States; extractive capitalism and ecocriticism; intertextuality, book history, and source studies; queer theory and the history of sexuality; neurodivergence and disability studies; and adaptation across media, including film and opera.

Teaching Method

Discussion.

Evaluation Method

Oral presentations and a substantial research paper.

Class Materials (Required)

Herman Melville, Moby-Dick; or, The Whale. (Norton 3rd edition; ISBN: 9780393285000). Everyone MUST read this edition. Other readings on Canvas.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: REASON: Pre-registration is not allowed for this class. Please try again during regular registration.
Add Consent: Department Consent Required