Readings for 2/2 and 2/4: Harper's "The Two Offers" and Larsen's Passing

Nella Larsen, photographed by James Allen in 1928, age 37. Harmon Foundation Records, Manuscript Division, Library of Congress.

Hi, class,

Here is the update* on the readings and presentations scheduled for next week:

Frances E.W. Harper: Read the handouts I gave you all. In addition, here is a link to a more readable version of her short story, "The Two Offers":

"The Two Offers" by Frances E.W. Harper

As I mentioned, I am cutting the Frederick Douglass readings for now—three students are delivering presentations on Douglass, so I will save my commentary for then.

Please read the above pieces and be ready to comment on a section that you find of particular significance--pay attention to diction, language, tone, and theme. What is significant about each piece? What do you notice about the rhetorical style?

In addition, we will be starting on Nella Larsen's Passing. Please read Part One: "Encounter," pp. 3-69. Although I will not require it, you may want to read Mae G. Henderson's foreword--it will provide some background and context to the novel.

* You are only responsible for reading the pieces listed above. However, if you have an opportunity, you may want to read the texts for this week’s presentations in advance:

Thursday2/4:

Marteena will present Frances E.W. Harper, “We Are All Bound Up Together” (1866).

Aaron will present Frederick Douglass, “If There is No Struggle, There is No Progress” (1857). 

All best,

Prof. Williams