US Gay and Lesbian History (324-0-20)
Instructors
Lane Fenrich
8474917560
1922 Sheridan Rd.
Meeting Info
Annenberg Hall G21: Tues, Thurs 3:30PM - 4:50PM
Overview of class
This course explores the history of homosexuality as a legible social and cultural category; of lgbtq individuals and communities as self-aware social and political actors; and of lgbtq/anti-lgbtq politics as arenas in which modern Americans have debated fundamental questions about human rights, personal autonomy, and citizenship. We will map the frameworks within which individuals have sought out, enjoyed, and understood sexual activity with others of the same sex; trace the growth of gay and lesbian communities over the course of the twentieth century; and survey the dramatic shifts and turns from the emergence of an organized gay and lesbian political movement to the traumas of the AIDS epidemic and the increasingly bitter fights over lgbtq citizenship and personhood of the last few decades.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the quarter you should be able to: Summarize and evaluate the major arguments surrounding the history of same-sex desiring individuals and communities and explain the significance of choosing one over another; Identify key figures and moments in U.S. gay and lesbian history and explain their significance; Explain how gay and lesbian history maps onto the history of other social categories such as race, gender, and ethnicity—and vice versa; Locate contemporary issues and debates in the broader context of U.S. gay and lesbian history and American history generally.
Evaluation Method
Three original essays
Class Materials (Required)
Required readings will be posted to Canvas
Class Notes
Concentration: Americas
Class Attributes
Historical Studies Foundational Discipline
Historical Studies Distro Area
U.S. Perspectives on Power, Justice, and Equity
Attendance at 1st class mandatory
Associated Classes
DIS - University Library 5722: Fri 11:00AM - 11:50AM
DIS - University Library 5322: Fri 11:00AM - 11:50AM
DIS - University Library 3370: Fri 12:00PM - 12:50PM
DIS - Locy Hall 110: Fri 1:00PM - 1:50PM
DIS - University Library 3622: Fri 1:00PM - 1:50PM
DIS - Kresge Centennial Hall 2-331: Fri 2:00PM - 2:50PM