American Literature II is designed to provide undergraduate students with a general background in American poetry, prose, and fiction from 1865 to the present. The course will focus on literary themes and traditions rather than individual authors, but writers usually considered to have had a major impact on the development of American literature and culture will receive the most attention. Class time will be devoted primarily to considerations of the cultural, historical and social background as well as discussions of assigned reading selections. Video documentaries will be included as appropriate.