FR160 - Haiti鈥檚 Past and Present through Literature
This course will examine the historical narratives of Haiti鈥檚 past and how they seek to explain the themes of exploitation and corruption that have characterized the country鈥檚 present. We will read about the individuals and events of Haitian history and explore the often catastrophic effects that the cultural forces of colonialism, racism, and imperialism have had on the nation鈥檚 development. From plays recounting the Haitian revolution and Toussaint l鈥橭uverture, to prose fiction depicting daily life before, during, and after the 2010 earthquake, we will identify how literary works鈥攖hrough their language and themes鈥攕peak forcefully against the dominant narratives depicting the Haitian people as willing victims of their own history. Taught entirely in English, but with some basic French and Haitian Creole language instruction where appropriate. May meet either the Critical Perspectives: Global Cultures or Social Inequality requirement. (Not offered 2025-26).
2 units
No offerings are currently scheduled.