230581 Puritanism in America (S) (SoSe 2007)

The aim of this seminar is to explore the Puritan idea and movement in the United States. this will include a look at the background in England and Europe, the underpinnings of Puritan thought, the nature of Puritanism in Colonial America, and the secularization of its thoughts and attitudes. Although this is basically a historical theme, an attempt will be made to observe Puritan / puritanical feelings in the United States today. In addition, there will be an opportunity to look at literary reflections of Puritanism, for example, in such works as Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter, O'Neill's Desire Under the Elms, or A. Miller's The Crucible.

The class is part of PM 5. Credit may be earned, in addition to regular reading and participation, by making an individual or group presentation of a topic in class (including a written paper after the fact) or by taking the final exam.

A reserved reading shelf (Semesterapparat) will be provided.