A survey of American literature from the period of exploration and settlement to the present. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from among a diverse group of authors for what they reflect and reveal about the evolving American experience and character. Prerequisite: Students taking this course must have satisfactorily completed Composition I, ENGL 1301, or the equivalent from another college or university.