This course examines various forms of American modernism that developed in the early years of the twentieth century and sought to perform a radical break from earlier conventions so as to reflect the socio-cultural and economic turbulence of the first decades of the 20th century. Modernism saw an explosion of literary innovation and unfolded in conversation with several phenomena of modernity: new forms of social and economic integration, but also expatriate life and displacement; new modes of perspective and experience. It also reflected an ambivalence towards a technologically innovative mass culture; and initiated new political discourses that altered understandings of race and gender. In view of all this, the course will pursue an interdisciplinary study of this moment by looking at literary and critical texts, but also painting and photography. In view of all this, the course will pursue an interdisciplinary study of this moment by looking at literary and critical texts but also painting, photography, architecture.
Semester:
Fall
Offered:
2022
