ALIT 372 - Mark Twain 3 s.h.

This course centers on Mark Twain, one of America’s most beloved literary figures. Celebrated and censored, Twain’s work continues to be relevant to America’s preoccupations with its identity—especially in terms of race, region, and class—as well as its status among other nations. His role as literary innovator and cultural commentator will be examined through the lens of both the post-Civil War era and our own historical moment. Readings will include all of his major novels—Tom Sawyer, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Pudd’nhead Wilson, A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court—as well as short stories, fables, and his enigmatic “dream tales.” Films, literary criticism, and other sources will situate Twain’s continued influence on both American literary history and popular culture. Pass/Fail Option. Offered every 2-3 years.
LA
Prerequisite(s): LITR 150 ; LITR 250 ; COMP 200 or COMP 290 ; and 6 s.h. ALIT, ELIT, WLIT, or LITR.