The main objective of this module is to provide a general introduction to the wide range and extraordinarily rich diversity of the literatures of the United States of America in the twentieth century. Particular attention will be paid to the way in which literary texts record and respond to the social, political, and economic crises of the two World Wars, the Great Depression, and the Cold War. Emphasis will also be placed on the differing themes and formal strategies which develop from the various ethnic and regional experiences of Americans during the century, and issues of gender and class in relation to theme and form will be systematically examined. Although the novel is given some priority as a genre, an attempt has been made to keep a balance, so that drama and poetry are also represented in the selection of required reading.

This module is a level 3 option module that, due to programme changes, is offered to both Year Two and Year Three students (Year Two students take the 20-credit form; Year Three take the 30-credit form). The difference between the two is determined by assessment, not by course content or delivery. It remains suitable for both English and American Studies students, but is intended primarily for American Studies students.