English 190

Other Readings and Media

Derounian-Stodala (ed.), K.: Women’s Indian Captivity Narratives; Baepler, P.: White Slaves, African Masters; Tyler, R.: The Algerine Captive; Rowson, S.: Slaves in Algiers; Gates (ed.), H. L.: The Classic Slave Narratives; Prince, M.: History of Mary Prince

Description

The captivity narrative is the first literary genre that might be called uniquely “American.” Although its standard protagonist was a white woman kidnapped by Indians, the captivity narrative genre extended to the capture of sailors and pirates at sea, Christians and Muslims on the Barbary Coast, and Africans enslaved and transported throughout the Atlantic world. In this course, we will study a range of Indian, pirate, and slave captivities, from the colonial period through the early nineteenth century. We will also pursue research in secondary sources, tracing traditions of literary criticism around the issue of captivity and the captive’s position. Students will learn hands-on research methodology, complete an annotated bibliography, and complete the course by writing a substantial research paper.

This section of English 190 satisfies the pre-1800 requirement for the English major.

Please read the paragraph on page 2 of this Announcement of Classes for more details about enrolling in, or wait-listing for, this course.