In this class we are going to explore issues of nationalism in relation to the U.S. after 1945. What is a nation? What is nationalism? Is the nation-state still relevant? In what contexts? What of trans-nationalism? Or even post-nationalism? These have been key questions for American Studies scholars over the last decade.

We will join these critical conversations by reading both theoretical works and scholarship that puts those works and concepts into practice. You will have a chance to work out your thoughts on these issues both in text through your blog postings and in discussion during class. At every turn you should consider the implications of the reading and our discussions for your own interests and work.

Since this is an American Studies course, our readings and explorations will not be tied to any particular discipline. That will make it imperative that we explicitly discuss methodology with respect to each work. This will have the bonus of providing some methodological groundwork for you as you move toward your senior projects.

To participate in the blogging portion of the class, you will have to register yourselves to use this site. Go to the Login page and click the “Register” link to begin. You will be sent a password that you can then change.

Good Luck! This will be an exciting and challenging semester.