African American Literature – 1900 to Present

Unit 1 – African American Literature Since 1900: Intro

Unit 2 – The Harlem Renaissance

Unit 3 – Realism & Naturalism in African American Lit

Unit 4 – Modernism in African American Literature

Unit 5 – Civil Rights Era & Black Arts Movement

Unit 6 – Contemporary Black Poetry

Unit 7 – African American Women Writers

Unit 8 – African American Speculative Fiction

Unit 9 – African American Drama: 1900 to Present

Unit 10 – Hip-Hop and Spoken Word Influence

Unit 11 – Contemporary African American Novels

Unit 12 – Intersectionality in Black Literature

Unit 13 – Critical Analysis in African American Lit

Unit 14 – African American Literature: Future Trends

## What do you learn in African American Literature Since 1900

You'll explore the rich literary traditions of African American writers from the early 20th century to today. The course covers major movements like the Harlem Renaissance, Black Arts Movement, and contemporary African American literature. You'll read novels, poetry, essays, and plays by influential authors, analyzing their themes, styles, and historical contexts.

## Is African American Literature Since 1900 hard?

It's not typically considered one of the toughest courses, but it does require a good amount of reading and critical thinking. The challenge often lies in understanding the historical and cultural contexts of the works. If you're into literature and enjoy discussing themes and symbolism, you'll probably find it manageable and even fun.

## Tips for taking African American Literature Since 1900 in college

1. Use [Fiveable Study Guides](https://fiveable.me/cram-mode) to help you cram 🌶️
2. Keep up with the readings - don't fall behind or you'll be lost in class discussions
3. Pay attention to historical context when analyzing texts (e.g., how the Great Migration influenced Langston Hughes' poetry)
4. Engage in class discussions - sharing your thoughts helps solidify your understanding
5. Watch films like "Moonlight" or "The Color Purple" to see how these literary themes translate to screen
6. Create a timeline of major literary movements to help you understand how they relate to each other
7. Form a study group to discuss readings and share interpretations

## Common pre-requisites for African American Literature Since 1900

1. Introduction to African American Studies: This course provides an overview of the African American experience in the United States. It covers historical, social, and cultural aspects that form the foundation for understanding African American literature.

2. American Literature Survey: This class gives you a broad understanding of American literature from various periods. It helps you contextualize African American literature within the larger American literary tradition.

## Classes similar to African American Literature Since 1900

1. Contemporary African Literature: Explores literature from African countries, focusing on post-colonial works. You'll read authors like Chinua Achebe and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

2. Caribbean Literature: Delves into the rich literary traditions of the Caribbean islands. You'll study works by authors like Jamaica Kincaid and Derek Walcott.

3. African American History: Examines the African American experience from slavery to the present day. It provides crucial historical context for understanding African American literature.

4. Women in African American Literature: Focuses specifically on works by African American women writers. You'll explore themes of gender, race, and identity in their writings.

## Majors related to African American Literature Since 1900

1. African American Studies: Focuses on the history, culture, and experiences of people of African descent in the United States. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of African American contributions to society.

2. English Literature: Involves the study of literature from various periods and cultures. African American literature is an important component of this broader field of study.

3. Comparative Literature: Examines literature from different cultures and languages. Students analyze how African American literature relates to and differs from other literary traditions.

4. American Studies: Explores various aspects of American culture, history, and society. African American literature plays a significant role in shaping American cultural identity.

## What can you do with a degree in African American Literature Since 1900?

1. Teacher or Professor: Educate students about African American literature and culture. You could work in high schools or universities, sharing your knowledge and passion for the subject.

2. Literary Critic or Editor: Analyze and review literary works for publications or publishing houses. You'd use your deep understanding of African American literature to provide insights and critiques.

3. Cultural Consultant: Advise organizations on cultural sensitivity and representation. Your expertise in African American literature and culture would be valuable in various industries, from media to corporate settings.

4. Museum Curator: Organize exhibitions and educational programs related to African American culture and literature. You'd work in museums or cultural institutions to bring literature to life for visitors.

## African American Literature Since 1900 FAQs

1. Do we only read books by African American authors? While the focus is on African American writers, you might also read some works by non-African American authors for context or comparison.

2. How much writing is involved in this course? Expect to write several essays analyzing the texts you read, as well as possibly some creative writing assignments inspired by the works you study.

3. Are we expected to know a lot about African American history before taking this course? While some background knowledge is helpful, the course typically provides necessary historical context alongside the literary works.

Literature

African American Studies

1.1 Historical and Cultural Context

1.2 Key Themes and Motifs

1.3 Influential Authors and Works

2.2 Major Figures: Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Others

2.3 Poetry, Prose, and Drama of the Harlem Renaissance

2.1 Origins and Development

2.4 Impact and Legacy

3.3 Other Notable Authors and Works

3.1 Richard Wright and Native Son

3.2 Ann Petry and The Street

4.1 Jean Toomer and Cane

4.3 James Baldwin and Go Tell It on the Mountain

4.2 Ralph Ellison and Invisible Man

4.4 Gwendolyn Brooks and Maud Martha

5.5 Other Notable Authors and Works

5.1 Historical Context and Social Change

5.4 Malcolm X and The Autobiography of Malcolm X

5.2 Amiri Baraka and the Black Arts Movement

5.3 Lorraine Hansberry and A Raisin in the Sun

6.1 The Influence of Jazz and Blues

6.2 Rita Dove and Thomas and Beulah

6.3 Yusef Komunyakaa and Dien Cai Dau

6.4 Other Notable Poets and Collections

7.3 Maya Angelou and I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

7.2 Toni Morrison and Beloved

7.1 Alice Walker and The Color Purple

7.4 Other Notable Women Authors and Works

8.1 Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror

8.2 Octavia Butler and Kindred

8.3 Samuel R. Delany and Dhalgren

8.4 Other Notable Authors and Works

9.2 Suzan-Lori Parks and Topdog/Underdog

9.3 Other Notable Playwrights and Plays

9.1 August Wilson and the Pittsburgh Cycle

10.1 The Emergence of Hip-Hop Literature

10.2 Saul Williams and Said the Shotgun to the Head

10.3 Other Notable Authors and Works

11.1 Edward P. Jones and The Known World

11.2 Colson Whitehead and The Underground Railroad

11.3 Jesmyn Ward and Sing, Unburied, Sing

11.4 Other Notable Novelists and Works

12.3 Diaspora and Transnational Perspectives

12.1 LGBTQ+ Voices and Themes

12.2 Afrofuturism and Black Speculative Fiction

13.1 Applying Critical Lenses to African American Literature

13.2 The Role of Race, Class, and Gender

13.3 Postcolonial and Diaspora Studies

13.4 Afrocentricity and Black Aesthetics

14.1 Emerging Voices and Trends

14.3 Engaging with Contemporary Social and Political Issues

14.2 The Role of Technology and Digital Media

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