Course Description

An exploration of the comparative dimensions of Black and Irish experiences in the Atlantic world through the study of cultural production from the United States, Africa, Britain, the Caribbean, and Ireland. Special emphasis will be placed on the relevance of the texts under discussion to contemporary society around the world.

Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate student members of the class will: 1. Write a 15 – 20-page research paper of publishable quality. 2. Give two presentations during the semester, with the aim of improving their teaching and general communicative skills. 3. Lead small in-class discussion groups throughout the semester. 4. Meet separately as a group with the instruction 2 - 4 times per semester to discuss extra assigned reading and address pedagogical issues.

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Athena Title

The Black and Green Atlantic

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Grading System

A - F (Traditional)

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Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will be able to develop, support, and express ideas in written and oral form using language with clarity and precision in coherent, cohesive essays, and/or oral presentations.
• Students will comprehend the meaning of the terms "Black Atlantic" and "Green Atlantic," and learn of the cultural histories of and interactions between the Irish and African diasporas in both the Americas as well as Ireland and Africa.
• Students will draw comparisons between the Black and Green Atlantics with the ultimate aim of reaching a better understanding of racialization processes in the transnational context.
• Students will be able to synthesize competing positions into an original argument supported by textual evidence.

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Topical Outline

• Comparative cultural studies
• The Black and Green Atlantic
• Diaspora studies
• Literary theory
• Histories of nineteenth century Ireland, Britain, the Americas and Africa.
• Transatlantic Studies
• Modernism and post modernism
• Social commentary
• Documentaries and film theories
• Contemporary Poetry
• Absurdist theater

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Institutional Competencies

Communication

The ability to effectively develop, express, and exchange ideas in written, oral, interpersonal, or visual form.

Critical Thinking

The ability to pursue and comprehensively evaluate information before accepting or establishing a conclusion, decision, or action.

Social Awareness & Responsibility

The capacity to understand the interdependence of people, communities, and self in a global society.

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Syllabus

Select Faculty / Instructor to download syllabus:   O'Neill, Peter

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