COLL-S 103 Migrations and Cultures: The Balkans in the U.S. and the U.S. in the Balkans (Foster) (A&H) (3 cr.)

This course offers a broad introduction to the peoples and cultures of the Balkan peninsula, specifically the independent nations of Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Macedonia, Montenegro, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, and Turkey, and how members of these communities have adapted their cultures as the have migrated to the United States. At the same time, the class will look at the growing influence of American cultures in the fascinating countries of South Eastern Europe. Students will be challenged to think about multi- cultural United States as well as the process of globalization of local cultures.

The focus of this course will be on contemporary cultures in the form of literature and film and the languages that serve to define the cultural isoglosses found in contemporary South Eastern Europe. While some attention will be paid to the history of the Balkans, the course will center on the contemporary manifestations of Balkan cultures, especially by close readings of authentic texts (literature and film) in English translation. A unifying theme in the course will be the exploration of the theme of migration and how both the United States and the Balkans have been sources and destinations of migrations.

Basic academic skills (writing, research, critical thinking) will be important parts of the course. All students will be required to submit short written (2 pages) or oral (5 minutes) text reviews of assigned readings or films. Students will complete a major research paper on a topic chosen in consultation with the instructor. The research project and paper will be closely supervised by the instructor who will require an outline, first, and final drafts be submitted. Students will be expected to participate in classroom discussion and debates.