FARAH GRIFFIN

UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

ENGLISH 285

This seminar is an introduction to the diverse concerns of contemporary literature, criticism and theory written by black women from throughout the African Diaspora. Each unit will start with a work of fiction, poetry (and perhaps photography or film) and then go on to explore important critical and theoretical essays that share the concerns of the creative texts. However, throughout the course our readings will challenge such strident boundaries between creative, critical and theoretical. Questions of history, narrative, memory and resistance will guide our discussion of each reading.
The seminar is designed as a workshop; its success is dependent upon your attendance, participation and engagement. All of us are expected to attend class, read every assignment carefully and come prepared with comments and/or questions. No question or comment is stupid or unworthy of our atten- tion. At times we will encounter very difficult reading and this requires that we be prepared to work through them together. I expect you to be thoroughly engaged in the classroom and related activities. Throughout the semester, I will bring to your attention relevant lectures, exhibitions, documentaries, discussions, films and other events. Please feel free to do the same. When possible we can organize group outings to attend such events in Philadelphia.

January 17