The Social Reform Novel

There is a long tradition of concern in American fiction with neglected and emerging social problems. Focusing on different historical periods, with an emphasis on the present day, this course will examine the way that writers have used their work to address race relations, inequality, homelessness, health care reform, climate change, and other major public issues. In true interdisciplinary fashion, a combined literary/political framework will guide our approach to these texts (and, in some cases, supportive material in popular media and film) as we consider how authors both document and dramatize their subject matter.

After 41 years on staff, David Rochefort recently retired from his position as a full-time member of the Political Science Department at Northeastern University. He taught courses on public policy analysis, health and social welfare policy making, and research methods, as well as a seminar on literature and contemporary social issues for the university honors program.