Several of the works we’ve read recently are set in the American South – As I Lay Dying, A Streetcar Named Desire, and “Good Country People.” All of these texts might be considered a part of the “Southern Literary Renaissance” of the 20th century. Why do you think so many significant writers and artists emerged from the South during this period, and what are some common themes or problems that you see connecting these texts?

Readers and audiences usually have strong reactions to the play: Who, if anybody, do you sympathize with here? All of the characters are certainly flawed in various ways. Is Blanche right that she understands Stanley better than Stella? What does she think she understands? You might also think about this in connection with Faulkner and his depiction of the South… Are both texts responding to some of the same social forces and upheavals?

Welcome to American Lit II. This is the course blog. I’ll be adding comments, observations, and questions and will invite you to respond with your comments (for credit, of course).