American Culture Studies

"Chinatown," as a cultural symbol and a spatial entity, links various topics and studies in this course. Our survey starts with a historical and geographical glimpse of five Chinatowns in the US through the real-life stories of their residents. This is followed by an in-depth study of Chinese restaurants and food in a global diasporic context using texts, images, and films that reveal how Chinese cuisine is inherited in and adapted to each local culture and society. The seminar culminates in discussions of Chinese migration and settlement, of representations of identity, and of cultural and spatial constructions in particular historical and social contexts. The assignments include fieldtrips to Chinese businesses, and a debate on whether or not Olive Blvd constitutes a Chinatown in St Louis.
Course Attributes: EN HFYSBU ISAS HUMAS LCDFA HUMAR HUM