A cornerstone myth of American Exceptionalism is that the US is a classless society, but the consumption of popular culture is a classed phenomenon. This unit interrogates the principles of American studies by analyzing US pop culture. Part intellectual history of taste, part pop bonanza, it combines the trashiest cultural exploits (B movies, pulp novels, gossip sites) with the most brilliant meditations on cultural value, exploring why people like what they like, and what it says about them.

We will trace the intellectual evolution of American Studies since WWII. Using classic texts we examine key themes (race, gender, sexuality) and concepts (culture, empire, power) that have shaped American Studies, consider major methodological and theoretical frameworks and examine recent developments.

In this unit students begin a substantial, independent research project in American Studies. Regular meetings with a supervisor approved by the United States Studies Centre Honours Coordinator will guide their progress. Students will develop a plan for researching and writing the thesis, submit an ethics application if appropriate, familiarise yourself with disciplinary conventions and standards, engage with relevant literature, theories and methodologies, and submit drafts at agreed times.

In this unit students complete and submit their substantial, independent research project in American Studies. Regular meetings with a supervisor approved by the United States Studies Centre Honours Coordinator will guide your progress. Students will continue to submit drafts at agreed times, and develop their expertise in relevant research methods and analytical skills as well as in the subject matter of their specialist topic.