New York Council for the Humanities: Reading Groups: Adult Reading Groups

Revolution and Rebellion in Early America

This series explores literature that examines how revolution and rebellion have shaped American history. Each session centers on a book selected by Karen Weingarten, a graduate student at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York.

The series opens with a discussion of New York is Burning " Jill Lepore's examination of the alleged plot by New York slaves in 1741 to burn down New York City and kill their masters.

The series continues with Carol Berkin's book, Revolutionary Mothers, which brings to light the stories of women of all races and classes who contributed to America's victory over the British.

In The Unredeemed Captive John Demos tells history in narrative form by uncovering the true story of ayoung Puritan girl captured, raised and accepted into tribal life by Native Americans.

The series concludes with a discussion of Wieland, Or the Transformation: An American Tale by Charles Brockden Brown. Filled with suspense and intrigue, this book, arguablythe first gothic American novel, looks at the theme of rebellion against traditional family structures.