Emma Goldman (1869-1940) and Gertrude Stein (1874-1946) were Jewish women who were wildly famous in their lifetimes for their political and cultural radicalism. Goldman promoted anarchism at a time when anarchists engaged in militant political action, and Stein wrote innovative poems that influenced the course of writing in English. Both created unique, powerful forms of writing to deliver their complex and often controversial ideas. They used these unconventional forms to challenge readers to think and act differently. In this class, we will explore these challenging texts and the innovative ways of thought and action that they offer. From our own moment of extraordinary instability and cultural transformation, we will consider the models Goldman and Stein offer us for engaging the world and changing it with the writing we do.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 15

Prerequisites: None. Open to First-Years only.

Distribution Requirements: LL - Language and Literature

Degree Requirements: WFY - First Year Writing

Typical Periods Offered: Every other year; Fall

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall

Notes: This course satisfies the First-Year Writing requirement and counts as a unit towards a major in Jewish Studies. Includes a third session each week. No letter grades given.