HIST 3452

The Myth of America

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2020-2021.

This course understands "myth" in the sense of "ideological construction."  So we'll be examining the intellectual and cultural life of Americans, over the last two centuries. The emphasis will be on identity, at both the personal and national level. We'll explore the ways in which different versions of "American Culture" have been constructed and contested. Central themes and subjects include individualism, militarism, belonging, technology, philosophy, and art, in addition to race, class, and gender. What cultural baggage are you carrying when you refer to "America" or "Americans"?  Over the years, has the idea of "America" been more unifying or more divisive?

When Offered Fall.

Distribution Category (HA-AS, ALC-AS, HST-AS)
Course Subfield (HNA)

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