Gender, Sexuality, and History (321-0-20)
Topic
Gender, Race, & the Holocaust
Instructors
Sarah M. Cushman
Kresge 3210
Meeting Info
Locy Hall 314: Mon, Wed 12:30PM - 1:50PM
Overview of class
The aim of this seminar is to introduce students to the history and historiography of race and gender during the Holocaust. As with many historical events, race and gender interacted dynamically and created the context of Nazi-occupied Europe - a place where Jewish men and women suffered in particular ways, German men and women participated in particular ways, and other racial groups - men and women alike - were targeted, collaborated, resisted, and rescued. We will read a variety of texts that explore the influences that shaped people's behaviors and responses during the Holocaust. Antisemitism sat directly in the center of the Nazi world view. Once the Nazis got into power, they sought to translate ideology into policy. Still, their racial policies evolved over time, spurred by opportunism, innovation, and war. And too, Jewish men and women responded to the Nazi onslaught in ways similar and divergent. Sexism was also an important aspect of the Nazi perspective. While they embraced an anti-feminist stance, the Nazis nevertheless sought to incorporate "German" women into the national community and women participated actively in the implementation of Nazi racial policies.
This course serves as an introduction, but some general knowledge of Holocaust history is assumed. For the purpose of dynamic engagement, the class will be comprised of reading, writing, discussion, and a final portfolio. The success of the course depends on the participation and enthusiasm of all.
Learning Objectives
• Students will be able to Identify and define key concepts and time periods related the Holocaust
• Students will be able to engage critically with course readings to identify authors' main arguments, the sources and evidence they use to support their arguments, and weaknesses or gaps in their arguments.
• Students will be able to clearly communicate their ideas in written work and classroom discussion
• Students will engage critically with their own learning processes to develop self-assessment skills
Teaching Method
Reading, class participation and discussion, three response papers, self-assessment, films and podcasts.
Evaluation Method
Class participation, papers, final portfolio
Class Materials (Required)
In Canvas
Class Attributes
Advanced Expression
Historical Studies Foundational Discipline
Historical Studies Distro Area