HL90CL: Breaking the Law: American Crime Stories

Semester: 

Fall

Offered: 

2016

Instructor: Nicholas Donofrio
Meeting time: Thursday, 10-12

What is crime? Who commits it? When and where is it likely to occur? How should it be punished? And why do we find it so interesting? These are the questions at the dark heart of American crime fiction—questions whose answers have changed considerably over time. Course examines detective stories, spy novels, police procedurals, gangster movies, and more. Readings from Poe, Doyle, Christie, Hammett, and Highsmith; films include Mildred Pierce, The Godfather, and Boyz n the Hood.