ENG 346—Comparative Ethnic Literatures

This seminar explores various cultural, racial, and literary traditions through comparison of two or more ethnic literatures, including writings by African American, Asian American, Latino America, and indigenous authors. Students will think through the theoretical problems of comparison, which insist on maintaining historical specificity while developing nuanced formulations of hybridity and cross-cultural dialogue. Readings and discussion will situate racial formation within historical contexts marked by the intersection of race, class, gender, sexuality, and national and transnational affiliation.