OSHER 358 - History and Literature: "The Night Watchman"

Using Louise Erdrich's "The Night Watchman" as the launching point, this class will offer a one-hour look at the history of mid-20th century efforts by the federal government--with or without consent--to "terminate" historic tribes and assimilate Native Americans into mainstream American life. "In Washington's infinite wisdom, it was decided that tribes should no longer be tribes, never mind that they had been tribes for thousands of years." After looking at history, the class will continue with an hour of literature, discussing the novel as a piece of contemporary fiction. Readers and history buffs welcome! Participants should read "The Night Watchman" before class begins.