AMST 350 - Topics in American Culture

Nubia in American Thought Fall (3), Pope “Nubia: An African Kingdom in American Thought, 1767-2012.” For over two centuries of American history, perceptions of Africa and of race have been expressed through shifting interpretations of an ancient African kingdom called Nubia. This course will trace the archaeological rediscovery of Nubia and explore its changing significance in American thought. No prior knowledge of Nubia is required.

The Idea of Race. Fall (3) Blakey. This course follows the history of the concept of race in Western science and society. The course examines racist ideas in biological anthropology and cognate fields that are reflected in the broader society. This subject helps students understand the origins and manifestations of American racism, to develop an appreciation of ways in which culture can systematically influence scientific results, and to critically evaluate all theories of the interactions of biology and behavior.

Music of the Civil War Fall (4), Preston Music played a vital role in American society during the Civil War years–from mustering troops on the field and rousing patriotic fervor to comforting families back at home; this period, in fact, represents the first great flowering of American popular song. This course will be a cultural examination of the function and power of music during this period. We will cover military music played by bands, popular song of various types, dance music, and touring musicians who entertained troops and civilians alike by examining musical compositions, composers, and performers. No musical background is necessary.

The United States, 1945-1975: Society, Thought, and Culture Fall (3), McGovern An exploration of the principal forces shaping the countours of American culture, society and thought in the pivotal first three decades after World War II.

Immigration and Religion Fall (3), Fitzgerald