FGSS 2290 - [Introduction to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Studies]

(crosslisted)
(also AMST 2299, PMA 2690) (LA-AS)

Fall. 4 credits.

Next offered 2013-2014.

N. Salvato.

Serves to introduce students to the disciplines of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender studies, especially as these have taken shape in relation to literature and visual culture. We’ll be addressing some of the crucial categories for the study of sexualities, including gender, queerness, identity, desire, eros, and kinship, and we’ll be paying close attention to the structures (like families, couples, texts, traditions, and performances) that articulate these categories. We’ll read some of the classic texts of LGBT studies (from thinkers such as Gayle Rubin, Michel Foucault, Judith Butler, Eve Sedgwick, Leo Bersani, and Lee Edelman) alongside some of the classic LGBT texts, including literary, historical, theatrical, cinematic, and televisual works. Recommended for students considering the minor in LGBT Studies. Although the specific materials considered in this course will vary with the instructor, it will always be treated as a broad introduction to the field.