LALS 241 - Topics in the Construction of Gender

Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)

This course examines the construction of gender as a social category and introduces students to various methodologies of gender studies and feminist analysis. Particular attention is given to the connections between gender, class, race, sex, and sexual identity. Topics vary from year to year and may include the study of gender in the context of a particular historical period, medicine and science, or the arts and literature.

Topic for 2023/24a: Latina Feminisms. (Same as WFQS 241) This course approaches Latina feminist practice as a highly contested and still-evolving site of cultural production. Among the issues explored: Latinx participation in feminist coalition-building across linguistic, racial, ethnic, gender, class, and national borders; Latinx writers’ negotiation and critique of cultural theory and practice; and the relationship of Latinx feminist activism to other political movements and practices in the Americas, including religion and spirituality, queer latinidad, and nationalist, anti-colonial and anti-capitalist movements. Authors studied may include Cherríe Moraga, Gloria Anzaldúa, Cristina García, Norma Alarcón, María Pilar Aquino, Achy Obejas, and Julia Álvarez. Kristin Sanchez Carter.

May be repeated for credit if the topic has changed.

Two 75-minute periods.

Course Format: CLS