What does it mean to study literature in a multicultural world? How do we learn who we are, where we belong, and how to relate to those who are different from us? This course explores these questions through the theme of coming of age in contemporary literature. Through short stories, novels, and films that explore the transformation from childhood to adulthood, we will examine how young protagonists struggle to understand themselves and navigate the societies they inhabit. We will also place literary texts in conversation with current debates about identity and belonging and explore how literature offers a distinctive way of thinking critically about the world we live in.

Content Advisory: Some assigned readings depict violence, sexism, racism, child sexual abuse, incest, and other forms of trauma that some students may find distressing. These materials are included because they raise important questions central to the course. Students are encouraged to approach these texts with intellectual curiosity and respect for diverse perspectives.

This course is highly interactive and aims to help students improve their language skills, argumentation, and critical thinking through literature. Please ensure you are willing to commit to reading a novel in English before enrolling.