The Harlem Renaissance has been our first move away from the poetry and literature of slavery and reconstruction. That is kind of obvious, but I know that reading the early works of Black writers becomes a difficult process since it forces us to analyze the darkest period of American history. There is also a...
Okay here is the first take home test. Anyone visiting the site who is interested in taking the test is more than welcome. The test is 7 pages. Please take the time to print this test and answer the questions completely. The test should be submitted along with the Literary Critique on one of...
We discussed the Reconstruction and the Great Migration very briefly. What remains important in looking at the Reconstruction period of literature is how Blacks had to learn to adjust to not pursuing freedom from slavery any longer, but pursuing equality in a world that still required them to remain third class citizens. What is...
Whew, that is one long title. We are switching gears and moving from the Literature of Slavery. Once again there is not enough time in one semester to take on the authors that you have heard of, let alone the authors you haven’t been introduced to. One of the primary elements of studying African...
The Vernacular Tradition was a great way to start the course. We were able to analyze the language used in the various forms of oratory that helped to shape and became a part of the Black literary journey. The Literature of Slavery however delves into the beginning of Black literary exploration in America. There...
The Vernacular Tradition remains an influential part of Black Literature. The Norton Anthology takes an extensive look at the Spoken word in the Black community prior to delving into the written history. This is a point of interest that both students and casual visitors to the blog have to consider. *Why is the Vernacular...
In the previous post (Introduction) I asked “Is African-American Literature’s absence in high school one of the primary reasons race relations are still complex?” I am still interested in feedback on this question. Today the class moved into the section of the book titled The Vernacular Tradition. Without removing the ability of anyone reading...
This semester (Spring 2012) I will be attempting to carry the class conversation beyond the parameters of the school and into cyberspace to allow any person interested in commenting and reading to discuss potential topics with the students who have decided to take this course. The book we are using is the 2nd Edition...
Authored by Christopher D. Burns Archie’s Psalm is a glimpse into the life of a latchkey kid who is encountering situations that force him to learn about the changing world around him. A coming of age story with a carefully crafted narrative and subplot, Archie’s Psalm shows the transitioning world of a neighborhood in...