We'll examine texts in a variety of genres by authors who move American
literature from the Civil War to the 20th century--some at the end of their
careers (e.g. Whitman), some at the very beginning (e.g. Wharton), and at
least one who spans the era (Henry James).  Other likely suspects include
Chopin, Crane, Davis, Dickinson, and Dreiser.  Emphasis will be on issues
of realism, representation, and authorial perspective.  Weekly writing
assignments; no final examination.