This course focuses on the skills and strategies of analysis and critical thinking needed to interpret texts. It also focuses on ways in which literary texts represent culture and identity, and on the dynamic relationship between authors, texts, audiences, and contexts. Students produce responses that show the depth and clarity of their understanding. They extend their ability to sustain a reasoned critical argument by developing strategies that allow them to weigh alternative opinions against each other. By focusing on the creativity and craft of the authors, students develop strategies to enhance their own skills in creating texts and put into practice the techniques they have observed. This course contains both course work and an exam.