Beginning in the post-war era, the Beat Generation was a literary movement unlike any other. The Beats rejected traditional narrative forms and explored American and eastern cultures through sexual liberation, spiritual exploration, psychedelic experimentation, non-conformity, and spontaneity. Their unconventional style marked them out as obscene and hedonistic, but decades later the legacy of their contributions to culture and examinations of society still stand as a testament to the power of literature.

This class will be primarily discussion-based and will allow everyone to voice their opinions about the texts and this perennial era of literature. Grades will be determined by a combination of participation and two informal writing assignments. Our hope is that through this class, we can help carry on the legacy of the Beats and share our love of their work.