From its roots in the Christian west, American literature gave shape to new ideas even as it breathed life into existing forms such as the Biblical sermon, the ancient quest, and the medieval romance.
This course takes the student from colonial writings to modern fiction, and surveys both prose and poetry. The class is divided between lecture and discussion formats. The student should expect frequent, guided readings and regular writing assignments.
We’ll develop a background in the Puritans and Founders. Then we will read novels, poetry, and short stories.
This course is part of the Compass Lectures Series where veteran teachers are filmed as they teach in an actual classroom. This product includes streaming access to the videos filmed live in Nashville. Assignments for local students are explained on the videos and in the course steps. However, parents are solely responsible for assigning and grading this work.
Required Books
- The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper
- Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
- The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane
- Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
- The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- Travels with Charley by John Steinbeck
- Peace Like a River by Leif Enger
Course Content
INTRODUCTION & MATERIALS
About Instructor
Course Includes
- 31 Lessons
- 58 Steps
- Course Certificate
