NATIVE AMERICAN LITERATURE
University of Lund – May 2002

COURSE LINKS

N. Scott Momaday (includes study guide)	Louise Erdrich (includes study guide)
Leslie Silko (forthcoming)	Sherman Alexie (forthcoming)

OUTSIDE LINKS of INTEREST

Native American literature yahoo web links	Native American Storytellers online
Native American web index	Native American Authors web resources
Smithsonian Institution Native American Resources	Association for the Study of American Indian Literature
American Indian Studies Research Institute IU	My Native American Page (history, culture, literature)

Dr. Mary Magoulick (Georgia College & State University)
magoulick@yahoo.com

Texts

• Alexie, Sherman. The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fist Fight in Heaven. New York: The Atlantic Monthly Press. 1993.

• Erdrich, Louise. Love Medicine: New and Expanded Version. New York: HarperCollins,1993 (originally published 1984).

• Momaday, N. Scott. The Way to Rainy Mountain. Albuquerque: University of New Mexico Press, 1969.

• Silko, Leslie. Ceremony. New York: Penguin Books, 1986 (originally published 1977).

Course Objectives

We will consider some of the most important literature of the Native American renaissance, with special emphasis on cultural contexts of each work. Native American cultures today remain vital, in the process of a dynamic renewal of identity, as each of our readings will demonstrate. Although many Native American writers today draw upon themes, images, and characters from traditional Native American myths, tales, and songs, they nonetheless set their works in our world, often focusing upon blending of cultural impulses. Our consideration of cultural contexts and implications of the literature will lead to larger questions and issues regarding both Native American history and the overall importance of context in the study of literary texts. Only recently has Native American literature been allowed into the canon of literary studies (and for the most part only these widely acclaimed authors are read). By examining some traditional Native American literature (as we explore the contexts of our texts), we will also ponder the reason for the success of these authors and their role in opening the canon.

Course Description

This course will involve lectures and discussions of the works students will read outside the classroom as homework The professor will offer contextual information for the cultures and authors of each of the works to be considered and will lead students in careful textual analysis of the novels we read. You are not required to have any prior knowledge of Native American cultures or literature. What is important is a sense of curiosity about Native American literature and culture and a willingness to do the readings and participate in the course. You will also write a short critical response to a reading and a final exam that will give you an opportunity to discuss the works we have read and issues we have discussed comparatively.

Requirements

One short critical response to an assigned reading (1-2 pages each). You do not have to do any research or additional reading but should merely write about the ideas you had while reading.
A final exam in which you discuss (in essay form) the works read during the session. Your discussion should show an ability to synthesize class readings and discussions with your own original insights.
Regular, active attendance. Be prepared to ask and answer questions, and to raise and discuss issues of significance to this class.
Timely completion of all assignments. Readings are to be completed before the lecture on the day on which they are to discussed.

Grading Examination: 80% Critical Response: 20%

Grades on individual assignments will be based on effort and thoughtfulness as well as correctness of logic and development of ideas. Critical responses should use the text as a guide in analysis.

Notes

< E-mail me if you have any questions or concerns about the class, readings, or assignments.

< It is your responsibility as a student to keep up with work and any changes in the syllabus (even for classes you may miss). Late work will not be accepted and make-up exams will not be possible.

< This syllabus is a guide and is subject to revision. It is your responsibility as a student to note and adhere to any changes.

Calendar of Classes / Readings

Seminar 1 - Brief history / survey of major areas (slide lecture)

Seminar 2 - Read and discuss Momaday, The Way to Rainy Mountain

Seminar 3 - Read and discuss Silko, Ceremony

Seminar 4 - Read and discuss Erdrich, Love Medicine (1^st half) CRITICAL RESPONSE DUE

Seminar 5 - Read and discuss Erdrich, Love Medicine (2^nd half)

Seminar 6 - Read and discuss Alexie, The Lone Ranger & Tonto Fistfight in Heaven Movie: Smoke Signals

Seminar 7 - Final discussions and final exam

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