United States History: A Pop Culture History of America

Terms: 1 (not offered every term)
Grades: 11

Telling the story of ourselves involves a variety of media and a myriad of voices. Artists are often instrumental in documenting history as it happens through a diverse array of lenses; in so doing they shape and are shaped by these trends. In this spring elective, students explore aspects of twentieth century American history by examining various forms of creative expression, especially those that privilege marginalized voices, such as African Americans in film, paintings of the economically disadvantaged, photography for social justice, LGBTQ literature, the music of rebellion, women in television, and more. In our studies, we will emphasize how various American artists have used these media to respond to or to influence important events and social movements.  Students will also have the opportunity for an in€depth exploration of a research topic of their own choosing.