Listed in: American Studies, as AMST-221
Molly Mead (Section 01)
Leah C. Schmalzbauer (Section 01)
This course investigates the practice and ideal of community in America both on a national and a local level, asking students to engage in specific projects aimed at strengthening the public sphere and fostering community life. We will consider the nature and limits of democracy, the meaning of belonging, the experience of stigma and exclusion, the concepts of civic responsibility and public discourse, and the conflict and compromises inherent in political advocacy. This course will pay particular attention to the struggles of often-marginalized groups to build healthy and just communities. Coursework will include contemporary and historical case studies, literary depictions, and more theoretical readings, as well as a substantial commitment to the development and fulfillment of projects that assess or respond to contemporary concerns. Projects may range from youth work, to cultural events, to work on local policy goals, environmental, poverty and rights initiatives, or electoral politics.
Limited to 20 students. Spring semester. Professor Schmalzbauer and Ms. Mead, Director of the Center for Community Engagement.
Section 01
Tu 01:00 PM - 02:20 PM WEBS 220
Th 01:00 PM - 02:20 PM WEBS 220
| ISBN | Title | Publisher | Author(s) | Comment | Book Store | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| When a Heart Turns Rock Solid | Black | Amherst Books | TBD | |||
| y no se lo trago la tierra/...And the Earth Did Not Devour Him | Rivera | Amherst Books | TBD | |||
| Flat Broke With Children | Hays | Amherst Books | TBD | |||
| In Peace and Harmony: Carver Portraits | Eswald | Amherst Books | TBD |
These books are available locally at Amherst Books.