I. The Place of American Literature in the World

In spite of the fact that American literature has a much shorter history of merely over two hundred years than those of Chinese Literature and British Literature, it has become one of the most important literatures in the world. Since American became one of the two superpowers after the Second World War and the single superpower after the Soviet Union was splitted, American literature has developed rapidly and significantly, and has dominated the literary trend of the world for several decades, which can be illustrated by the fact that American produced more writers who won Nobel Prize for literature than any other nations on the globe. Modernism and postmodernism in the realm of literature developed and prospered in the United States. It may be safely said that American literature is taking the lead in the course of the world literature trend and development. American literature has fascinated a lot of critics, men of letter and professors from various parts of the world to explore and probe its charm and mystery. It has received the most insightful and enthusiastic comment from the intellectuals in different nations. The fine essay or book on American literature has been regarded by some people as authoritative. All these can demonstrate the unique position American literature has taken in the field of the world literature.

II. The Objective of this Course

This course is intended to acquaint students with a brief history of American literature and to help them cultivate a taste for appreciation American literature works. Meanwhile, their English competence is expected to reach a higher level, since literary works presents the finest and most dynamic part of a language. Moreover, through learning this course, students will be able to acquire a better understanding of American history, society, politics, religion, philosophy, economics, science and life experience. In this way students’ view will be broadened and their mind will be cultivated and stimulated to more creative thinking, and their ability to work as teachers of English will be strengthened. Their knowledge about American people and society is sure to be improved.

III. The Importance of American Literature for English Majors

Just as American English has become more dominant than British English in the world, so American literature attracts more attention than that of any nation also. It is self-evident that literature is closely related to language. English majors are unable to learn English well unless they strive to read some literary works of American and England. Besides, American literature is a compulsory course in most department of English language. Therefore, American literature will not only widen the way for English learning but also provide students with different perspective, which is indispensable for original and creative thinking.

IV. The Significance of American Literature for Students’ Profession and Further Study

This course will help students become more familiar with the western culture in general and with American culture in particular. Culture and language are correlated. They shape each other and affect each other. As the students of this program are mostly teachers of English, it is necessary for them to be informed of some essential knowledge of the western culture, especially of American culture, which will make their English teaching more constructive entertaining, flexible and affective. This course will also serve as preparation for their further study of M.A. or PhD. Program.