Black Americans have a unique identity that is movingly illustrated and celebrated in literature. In this course, we will take a year to read, examine, and discuss some of the seminal books written by Black authors that deal with the inescapability of history, the intersection of race and gender, and the difficulty of cultural assimilation. By spending time with these important and accomplished books, we will learn a great deal about the august Black literary tradition and how literature has functioned as a tool for revelation, connection, and progress for the Black community and American society at large.
This class takes place online via Zoom. Register to receive the zoom link and class instructions.
NOTE: You can register for just session 2, or receive a discount by committing to sessions 2-3.
Session Two: The Intersection of Race & Gender
May 14: Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
June 11: I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
July 9: Meridian by Alice Walker
August 13: Caucasia by Danzy Senna
Session Three: The Difficulty of Cultural Assimilation
September 10 & October 8: Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
November 12: The Intuitionist by Colson Whitehead
December 10: Erasure by Percival Everett
About Reader Series Classes
Reader series classes provide in-depth analysis and discussion of contemporary literature at community-friendly prices and times, taking you on a deep dive into specific topic or author to gain a more advanced understanding of literature and the world. Experienced instructors will provide history, context, and analysis, and guide in-depth discussion that will help make you an expert in a single subject or author’s body of work.
For the best experience in this class, read each book before the assigned meeting. However, you are more than welcome to attend the session even if you have not finished it. No matter your level of prior knowledge, you will receive a wealth of materials and insights in a condensed period, like a masterclass or a great course, only right here in Cleveland.
Scholarships available
Want to attend this class but price is an issue? No problem! Just email info@litcleveland.org and we can add you to the registration list for free! Support has been provided by Ohio Humanities, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
Work with the best...
Michelle R. Smith is a writer, poet, educator, cultural facilitator, and native Clevelander. She is the author of the poetry collections Ariel in Black (2015) and The Vagina Analogues (2020), and the creator of BLAX MUSEUM, an annual performance showcase dedicated to honoring notable black figures in American history and culture.
This class takes place remotely online via Zoom
Based in Cleveland, OH 44113
Related Classes
Read Like a Writer: Short Fiction - Session 2
Read Like a Writer: Poetry - Session Two 2024
