1. Read poetic texts closely and appreciatively.
2. Examine the cultural assumptions of belief and value behind 
the varied acceptance of Black American Works (hence, people of 
color) in particular and literary works in general.
3. Place the cultural issues of 1773-2002 (particularly
1960-1990) in historical and critical perspective.
4. Become aware of significant critical challenges in the study
of African American Literature and formulate sound solutions as 
well as personal theories.
5. Practice a few modern trends in critical theory.
6. Deepen the critical reading of primary texts for formal
technique and strategy, moral as well social significance, 
psychological insight, and mythic implications.
7. Encourage lively discussions that are stimulating as well as
respectful.
8. Attend all classes in order to be intellectually excited and
to excite.
9. Employ at least 15 secondary sources in the support or
contradiction of one's own original views in papers over the 
term.  Course papers will total approximately 20-25 pages of 
writing.
10. Write critical essays that are fluently well-argued,
literate, well- organized, and profound.

An example of works to be considered in one class:

Brooks, Gwendolyn. _Selected Poems_.
Dunbar, Paul L.  _Collected Poems_.
Harper, Michael S, ed.  _Every Shut Eye Ain't Sleep_.
Hughes, Langston.  _Selected Poems_.
Major, Clarence.  _The Garden Thrives_.
Randall, Dudley.  _Black Poets_.
Shields, John C.  _Collected Work of Phillis Wheatley_.

Students in this course are expected to be familiar with and adhere to the University
of Georgia policy on academic honesty, according to which all violations of academic
honesty will be handled. Students may participate in graded group projects at the
instructor's discretion.