AMERICAN CULTURAL STUDIES MOD.1

The learning outcomes of the course are: 1. advanced knowledge and understanding concerning key transatlantic and global aspects of American Studies; 2. the skill to apply this knowledge and understanding to other texts not included in the syllabus; 3. the development of advanced communication skills in English; 4. autonomous formulation of judgements in analyzing primary and secondary texts; 5. ability to work synergically with other students.

Advanced knowledge of the English language, written and spoken (≥ C1).
Good knowledge of key theoretical concepts in American Cultural Studies.

Title: “Beyond American Studies: Hemispheric, Atlantic, and World Perspectives”
This course will study expanding perspectives and methodologies in American Studies enhanced by the overlapping and complementary paradigms mentioned in the course title. While reading a variety of essays on different approaches to U. S. cultural history, we will also analyze a number of narratives according to these shifting perspective opportunities. The aim of the course is to introduce those attending to current American-Studies research approaches in a global context. Students will also develop methodological fluency in the field under study, including critical vocabulary, core concepts, and scholarly writing.
Attendance and participation are expected and will be a factor in student evaluation.
Non-attending students will be provided with further required bibliography.

The required essays and texts will be made available as pdf files at the beginning of the course. Further bibliography will be given from time to time as students prepare presentations and a final research paper (15 pages).

ATTENDING STUDENTS:
The exam will consist in three parts, paper (50%) oral individual presentations (30%), assignments (20%).
NON-ATTENDING STUDENTS
The exam will consist in three parts, written exame (60%) analysis of the short story (30%), assignments (10%).
The short story analysis and the assignments should be handed at least 15 days before the exam.

Seminar-style course with in-class discussion

English