PMD - Between Two Worlds Lesson

Between Two Worlds Lesson

America is a country of immigrants, people who have fled harsh conditions, violence, and persecution in other countries and turned to America and its promise of liberty and equality for all. The experience of immigrants in the United States, however, has not always been a fulfillment of this dream, whether because of the treatment of immigrants during certain periods of our history or because of the difficulty of moving from one culture to another. The writers in this lesson are all Americans who have experienced trying to live between two worlds, that of their native culture and that of the more dominant culture. They express the frustration, confusion, and beauty they experience as they navigate both worlds and try to manage not feeling fully accepted in either.

Please view the following presentation, which will introduce you to five important Latino and Chinese American writers: Rodolfo "Corky" Gonzáles, Maxine Hong Kingston, Gloria Anzaldúa, Amy Tan, and Sandra Cisneros. Please be patient while the video loads - depending on your internet connection, it may take some time. Ensure that your speakers are turned up, and use the controls at the bottom of the presentation if you need to pause the video. Make sure you also have a way to take notes, as this information will help you understand the texts in this unit and complete the unit assignments.

 

Reading Assignment

It is now time to read one text from each of the four authors introduced in this lesson. You will find the following  linked texts:

As you read, look for elements and characteristics of Postmodern writing, especially the blending of traditional and contemporary elements, the inclusion of multiple voices, personal emotional expression, and the use of non-traditional narrative patterns. You will use these observations on a future assignment. Finally, use the reading guide linked below to help self-assess your understanding of each text.

Between Two Worlds Reading Guide Text Link Links to an external site.

 

RESOURCES IN THIS MODULE ARE OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES (OER) OR CREATED BY GAVS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. SOME IMAGES USED UNDER SUBSCRIPTION.