This course will explore the history, tradition and theory of what is sometimes seen as a "new" genre--creative nonfiction. In spite of the new name, essay writing is not a new phenomenon, and we will spend time exploring the history and changes in this genre. While we will look at some of the roots of the tradition, most of our attention will be focused on the 20th century examples, from the "new" journalism, to personal essay, to memoir. We will discuss ethics and theories of nonfiction as well as trying out some exercises in form. Expect to read a lot (both essays and full-length works), to write a series of responses to readings (including some emulations of form), and to give a presentation to the class presenting research on a given author or topic. You will have the option of doing both creative and critical work in response to our readings. Some authors we may read might include Kingston, Thompson, Wideman, Iyer, and more.