Queer Theory (381-0-20)

Instructors

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

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-435: Mon, Wed 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

This course will introduce you to Queer Theory and theories of sexuality, emphasizing the practice of reading theory from a variety of textual sources as well as conceiving of sexualities US, medical, international, and transnational contexts. We will trace the development of both the term queer and the history of queer theory, beginning with foundational essays by queer theorists by Eve Sedgwick, Judith Butler, Michael Warner and Lauren Berlant. We will then read both canonical essays by a variety of queer theorists and essays questioning the politics of a Queer Theory canon and how that might politically occlude relevant voices and non-binary participants such as trans and BIPOC populations. These theoretical texts are placed in dialogue analyzing several contemporary fiction and film.

Learning Objectives

Basic canon of Queer Theory texts, questions to canon and inclusion, ability to close read and write.

Teaching Method

Discussion, written work both weekly and in seminar paper format

Evaluation Method

Attendance, weekly reading annotations, in-class participation, mid-term essay, seminar paper

Class Materials (Required)

All course materials will be provided on Canvas.

Class Attributes

Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area