Poetry in America: Poetry of the Civil War and its Aftermath

Course Description

Embark on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of American poetry with "Poetry in America: Poetry of the Civil War and its Aftermath." This comprehensive module, the fifth installment in the acclaimed Poetry in America series, offers an immersive exploration of the poetic landscape shaped by the nation's most defining conflict. Led by esteemed Harvard Professor Elisa New, this course delves deep into the heart of American literature, examining the profound impact of the Civil War on the nation's artistic expression.

What Students Will Learn

  • Gain a deep understanding of the intricate relationship between conflict, language, and nation-building in the context of the American Civil War.
  • Master the art of identifying and analyzing poetic devices in Civil War-era poetry.
  • Develop effective strategies for approaching and interpreting poems from this pivotal period in American history.
  • Enhance observational skills, comprehend poetic structure, and situate texts within their historical context.
  • Cultivate a genuine appreciation for the power and beauty of language in American poetry.

Prerequisites

This introductory-level course has no specific prerequisites, making it accessible to anyone with a passion for poetry and American history. However, a basic understanding of English language and literature would be beneficial.

Course Content

  • In-depth study of renowned poets such as Herman Melville, Walt Whitman, and W.E.B. DuBois
  • Analysis of poems exploring themes of patriotism, pride, justice, violence, loss, and memory
  • Virtual expeditions to iconic Civil War public memory sites
  • Examination of poetic devices and techniques employed in Civil War-era poetry
  • Exploration of the cultural and historical context surrounding the featured poems
  • Insights from distinguished guests, including Harvard President Drew Faust and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tony Kushner

Who This Course Is For

  • Literature enthusiasts eager to explore American poetry
  • History buffs interested in the Civil War's impact on artistic expression
  • Students of all levels seeking to enhance their poetry analysis skills
  • Educators looking to expand their knowledge of American literature
  • Anyone passionate about understanding the intersection of conflict and creativity in shaping national identity

Real-World Applications

The skills acquired in this course have far-reaching applications:

  1. Enhanced critical thinking and analytical abilities applicable to various professional fields
  2. Improved communication skills through the study of powerful and evocative language
  3. Deeper understanding of American history and culture, valuable in fields such as education, journalism, and politics
  4. Ability to interpret complex texts, beneficial in law, academia, and research
  5. Heightened appreciation for the arts, enriching personal and professional life

Course Structure

While a detailed syllabus is not provided, the course structure includes:

  1. Video lectures by Professor Elisa New
  2. Analysis of poems by Civil War-era poets
  3. Virtual tours of historic sites related to Civil War poetry
  4. Interpretive seminars and discussions
  5. Interviews with poets, scholars, and distinguished guests
  6. Exploration of archival images and texts

This HarvardX course not only offers a comprehensive study of Civil War poetry but also contributes to ongoing research about learning. By participating, students become part of a broader academic endeavor, enhancing the value of their educational experience.