What This Document Is
This is a detailed syllabus for HIST 587: Studies in the Politics of American Popular Culture, a graduate-level seminar offered at the University of Southern California in Spring 2003. It outlines the course’s objectives, expectations, grading policies, and a comprehensive reading list. The syllabus serves as the foundational guide for students navigating a complex exploration of how popular culture intersects with social, economic, and political forces in American history. It details the instructor’s approach to seminar discussions and written assignments.
Why This Document Matters
This syllabus is essential for prospective students considering enrollment in HIST 587. It provides a clear understanding of the course’s intellectual focus and the level of engagement expected. Current students will find it invaluable as a reference throughout the semester, detailing assignment requirements, grading breakdowns, and the schedule of topics. Researchers interested in the course’s approach to the field can also benefit from reviewing the syllabus’s stated aims and selected bibliography. Understanding the course structure *before* committing to it will help ensure a successful and rewarding academic experience.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This syllabus provides an overview of the course, but it does not substitute for active participation in the seminar itself. It does not include the full text of assigned readings, detailed lecture notes, or specific discussion questions. The syllabus outlines assignment expectations, but it does not provide completed examples of student work. It’s a roadmap, not the journey itself. Access to the full syllabus requires enrollment in the course.
What This Document Provides
* A clear statement of the seminar’s central themes and analytical approach to American popular culture.
* Detailed information regarding course expectations for participation and written assignments (reviews and presentations).
* A comprehensive list of required texts, spanning a range of scholarly works on cultural theory and American history.
* A semester-long schedule outlining key topics and associated readings.
* A list of journal abbreviations frequently referenced within the course materials.
* Instructor contact information and office hours.