The junior year includes continuing work in composition (critical, creative and research), and literary analysis. Students are expected to complete 2 semesters of Junior-level elective English courses. Eligible courses are included below.
African Americans have made significant contributions to the cultural fabric of America. With Bellarmine's diverse population in mind, this course will challenge students to examine themselves through the study of African American Literature. Former California Poet Laureate Al Young states it another way: "You may think you are reading and thinking about African American literature, but, in reality, it is America herself you will be exploring and experiencing through literature." This course will examine the history and culture of African Americans in the 19th and 20th centuries, beginning with slave narratives. The course will progress through the genres of poetry, short story, drama and novels. Our study will also take us to African American cultural manifestations in speech, art, film, and music. Time will also be spent on August Wilson's dramatic vision and the blues as cultural artifact.