Topics in Gender and Sexuality Studies (490-0-21)

Topic

Queer Theory

Instructors

Jillana B Enteen
847/491-4337
Crowe 1-113
Office Hours: by appointment

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-335: Tues 2:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

Topic: Queer Theory.

The central concerns of this graduate seminar are to familiarize students with critical issues, methods, and practices of Queer Theory. Our readings include foundational/early texts naming and/or refusing the topic/discipline itself as well as the way in which the practices of "reading queerly" occur in not only what we recognize as theory, but also fiction and film. We will examine and discuss critiques of the Queer Theory canons and work together to create a more relevant, inclusive lineage that takes into account BIPOC voices, feminisms, critical race theory, Trans* theory, diasporic, and transnational texts that supplement the too often white, US-centric field of inquiry. Students will be expected to read carefully and critically, interrogate and analyze the complex intersections of sexualities through cultural and sociopolitical analysis that incorporate gender, race, economic and access disparities, and other dimensions reflecting contemporary queer concerns broadly conceived.

Evaluation Method

Close reading will be the primary queer methodology practiced through class readings and writing, and by the quarter's conclusion, students will create reading lists or possible syllabi they might consider teaching in the future. In addition to this discipline-specific reading list, students will be expected to actively participate in class discussions including leading, singly or in groups, a section of a course meeting. Writing requirements consist of one short close-reading paper and a quarter-long project culminating in a 12-15 page seminar paper on a topic of their choice that demonstrates the production of queer theory from a first-person perspective.

Class Materials (Required)

All readings will be provided via Canvas.