American literature in the nineteenth century reflected the hopes, the fears, and the social struggles of the new United States. Early in the century, poetry, novels, short stories, plays, autobiographies, and other literature examined the possibilities and problems of freedom. Freedom could foster spiritual and personal growth, but also empower some to enslave or dislocate others. Important later literature became increasingly scientific in its world view, and it looked with confidence or doubt toward an increasingly modern future.

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to: 1. Demonstrate knowledge of important examples of early American literature; 2. Identify specific American texts in the course and interpret their content in a written format; 3. Develop and formulate a practicable thesis topic; 4. Compose a reasoned discussion on their chosen text in. its proper historical context, supporting their arguments with textual evidence and help from secondary material.