Sexual Subjects: Introduction to Sexuality Studies (220-0-20)
Instructors
Lane Fenrich
8474917560
1922 Sheridan Rd.
Meeting Info
Pancoe Building Abbott Aud: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM
Overview of class
This interdisciplinary introductory lecture/discussion course surveys the sprawling topics of sex, sexuality, and sexuality studies. It is one of two courses intended as introductions to the Gender and Sexuality Studies major. In addition to considering the multiple ways in which sexuality is simultaneously a somatic fact, a locus of identity; a site of regulation, contestation, and sociability—and, of course, an arena of pleasure—explicit attention will also be paid to the work of Northwestern scholars in different disciplines (history, sociology, anthropology, literature…) and the ways they formulate and attempt to answer questions about sexuality. Major questions will include: what makes a body male or female, homosexual or heterosexual, "normal" or "deviant" and how have the answers to those questions changed over time? Is the history of sexuality one of increasing liberation? How is the policing of sexual behavior related to the (re)production of other social categories such as race, gender, and adolescence?
Registration Requirements
Attendance at first class is mandatory. Enrollment in discussion section is required.
Learning Objectives
Students will learn to: Recognize and effectively employ theoretical/methodological concepts central to the field of sexuality studies; Provide examples of the ways sexuality intersects with gender, race, class, nationality, and other culturally contingent subject positions or experiences; Use the concepts, language, and major theories discussed in the course to develop cogent explanations of ongoing phenomena or events; and Fashion arguments that bridge disciplinary boundaries in intellectually productive ways.
Teaching Method
Lecture/discussion
Evaluation Method
Class participation, four five-page essays.
Class Materials (Required)
All course materials will be provided on Canvas.
Class Attributes
Historical Studies Distro Area
Interdisciplinary Distro-rules apply
Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area
Associated Classes
DIS - Locy Hall 305: Fri 9:00AM - 9:50AM
DIS - Locy Hall 305: Fri 10:00AM - 10:50AM
DIS - Locy Hall 305: Fri 11:00AM - 11:50AM
DIS - Locy Hall 318: Fri 12:00PM - 12:50PM
DIS - Locy Hall 318: Fri 1:00PM - 1:50PM
DIS - Locy Hall 318: Fri 2:00PM - 2:50PM