Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey

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BLST 0275

Teaching August Wilson

Make Room: Teaching August Wilson
August Wilson has been hailed as “Theater's Poet of Black America,” yet many students have little exposure to this theatrical and literary giant. In this course we will explore Wilson’s "Century Cycle" a collection of 10 plays-each set in a distinct decade- that portray African American experiences in the twentieth century. We will take an interdisciplinary approach to reading, analyzing, staging (where possible), and understanding Wilson’s work. We will explore key influences on Wilson’s work including the blues, The Black Arts Movement, visual artist Romare Bearden, essayist and fiction writer Jorge Luis Borges, and playwright/poet Amiri Baraka among others. We also will engage with visiting artists, scholars, teachers, and community members as we consider Wilson's impact and the importance of teaching and studying his work. 3 hr. lect.
Subject:
Black Studies
Department:
Program in Black Studies
Division:
Interdisciplinary
Requirements Fulfilled:
AMR ART LIT
Equivalent Courses:
EDST 0275 *

Sections in Fall 2024, Midd First Half of Term

Fall 2024

BLST0275A-F24 Lecture (Affolter)