East European Literature and Visual Arts (392-0-1)

Topic

Soviet Queens and Global Gays

Instructors

Marta Lasota

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-343: Tues, Thurs 9:30AM - 10:50AM

Overview of class

This course examines queer literature, art, and politics across Poland, Russia, and Ukraine from the late Soviet era to the present. Together, we trace how shifting political regimes shape gender and sexuality. We begin with the communist period of surveillance and underground networks. Next, we examine the transition to capitalism, focusing on the clash between local "Soviet queens" and global gays. Finally, we explore contemporary struggles, from Pussy Riot's protest art against Putin to queer military participation in Ukraine. We also analyze queer resistance against today's "anti-gender" movements and the strategies Eastern European feminist collectives have offered. Through the study of fiction, poetry, performance art, and documentary film, students will develop critical tools to engage with the urgent aesthetic and political questions defining Slavic queer life.

Class Notes

Previous knowledge of Eastern European cultures is helpful but not required. All texts will be available in English translation.

Class Attributes

Advanced Expression
Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
SoC Humanities and Fine Arts Distro