The American Literature examination covers material that is usually
taught in a two-semester survey course (or the equivalent) at the
college level. It deals with the prose and poetry written in the
United States from colonial times to the present. It is primarily a
test of knowledge about literary works their content, background and
authors but also requires an ability to interpret poetry, fiction and
nonfiction prose, as well as a familiarity with the terminology used
by literary critics and historians. The examination emphasizes fiction
and poetry and deals to a lesser degree with the essay, drama and
autobiography.