Draws on Susan Miller's distinction between "feminist composition studies" and "feminine composition studies" to raise concerns about the perception, place, and role of composition studies in English departments. Examines the feminine metaphors used in composition theory and research. (TB)

Argues that adherence to rigid disciplinary boundaries of English studies will lead scholars to miss important occasions to advance their work and effect change. Attempts to redefine the integrity of English studies--to move it from an authorial and structural referential to an ethos committed to knowing, learning, and studying other forms of…

Suggests that the valorization of Emerson in English departments has been behind the split between fiction and nonfiction, and between creative writing and composition. Suggests further that the values Emerson places on contemplation versus action degrade argument and persuasion. (TB)

Argues that, in the Southwestern U.S. colonial domination continues, especially through exclusionary practices in educational institutions like departments of English. Shows the dynamics of exclusion historically existing for ethnic minority groups within the U.S.-Mexico contact zone; and how Texas Mexicans have responded in a transcultural manner…

Considers three of the primary ways that scholars of English studies have theorized the concept of culture as it relates to the English discipline, and analyzes why these positions have produced mostly ambiguity about the connection between English studies and the social project to acculturate students. Addresses what the role of classroom writing…

Explores the mechanism of the endurance of the unequal division of the professional status and power within English studies--particularly the role of the writing program administrator (WPA) in sustaining composition's marginality. Suggests that the WPA position is the site at which radical, reformist theories can be redirected into pedagogic and…

Claims the literary critical essay does virtually nothing, as it is printed, read by a small number of literary people, and forgotten. Argues that teaching is doing and claims that the English department establishment either ignores or sneers at the kind of scholarship that tries to solve the problems of teaching literature and composition. (NH)

Suggests that W. Ross Winterowd's most significant and influential contribution to the field of rhetoric and composition is the Rhetoric-Linguistics-Literature Program (RLL), started in 1972 as a program in the Department of English at the University of Southern California. Presents a history of the program, noting its "virtual demise"…

Claims a consumerism model manifests itself in first-year composition programs. Discusses the academic situation generally and English Departments specifically to explore how the current reform movement clashes with postmodern values in this discipline. (NH)

Discusses Ross Winterowd's pioneering efforts in establishment of graduate rhetoric programs; his efforts in training future high school teachers of writing; his high school textbook; founding of the Rhetoric Society of America; relations between the English department and the Rhetoric, Linguistics, and Literature program at the University of…