COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The novels we will be reading in this course are unique and memorable works of art. We will concern ourselves with how they work, how they create pattern and motive and meaning, what is distinctive about the styles in which they are written, what truths are to be found in the worlds they allow us to imagine. These novels also register deep responses to social changes and historical crises, and our discussions will often focus on relations between literary texts and their wider contexts. Topics include relations between personal and national identities, the concept of transnational or postnational identities, the complex and often violent legacies of imperialism and colonialism, inscriptions and re-visions of assumptions about race, class, religion, sexuality, masculinity and femininity, and the prospects for different approaches to personal and cultural healing.

OBJECTIVES:
To develop a better sense of how novelists work with historical materials and contemporary realities; to understand the reasons behind the ongoing redefinition of the cultural boundaries of "English"; to acquire more points of entry into the histories and literatures of the various countries represented by these texts; to become better close readers of texts, including those drawn from or depicting cultures and communities with which we may not already be familiar; to expand our 'repertoire' of approaches to writing and talking about novels.

REQUIREMENTS:
Regular attendance and active participation in class; six 1-2 page (typed!) responses (directions will be distributed in class); an 8-10 page research paper (which may develop out of your responses); a one-page abstract of your research paper; a formal oral presentation to the class, based on your research paper. Students doing their senior exercises in this class need not write the research paper, but do need to fulfill all other requirements for the course.

EVALUATION:
Approximate breakdown of final grade: 20% attendance and participation; 25% responses; 10% abstract; 30% research paper; 15% oral presentation.

Normally, deadlines will be extended and absences will be excused only in the case of an urgent personal problem, a family emergency, or a serious illness, verifiable, if necessary, by the Dean. Absences will limit what you can gain from the course and what you can contribute. Unexcused absences also will lower your final grade. Late work for which no extension has been granted will receive an "F".

Remember that plagiarism, even when unintentional, is a serious offense. If you are not sure what plagiarism is, always ask your instructor.