COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Before the late 19th century, sexuality was not closely tied to identity. As Western culture developed, sexuality—for some—has become an integral part of self-definition. In this Literature and Culture course, we will look specifically at themes of sexual identity and sexuality in novels, plays, movies, and other media. We will consider the “coming out” narrative, the ways in which LGBTQ characters are sometimes relegated to types, the importance of proper sexual education, the issue of gender fluidity and sexual fluidity in literature, and the function (and dysfunction) of sexual identity labels. The purpose of this course is to develop skills in reading, analyzing, and writing about literature. So in addition to reading texts such as Fantomina, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, I’ll Give You the Sun, Angels in America, Spring Awakening, and others, you will also write response papers and textual analyses. Research may be incorporated into some of the assignments, but the emphasis of this course will be on writing about the texts themselves.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
Attendance and participation: You are required to be present both physically and mentally. This means you show up to class with your work completed, you listen actively to the instructor and your classmates, and you contribute regularly to discussion.
Papers and Assignments: This course will require you to turn in a number of small written responses as well as a larger textual analysis essay; you will also do one short presentation.
In-class work, reading responses, and quizzes: depending on the day, you may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge of the required readings and in-class discussion through daily assignments which may include (but is not limited to) group work, worksheets, reading responses, quizzes, and free writing.
Texts: The following texts are required:
- Fantomina by Eliza Haywood (Broadview Press, ISBN: 978-1551115245)
- The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky (MTV Books, ISBN: 978-1451696196)
- I’ll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson (Speak, paperback version, ISBN: 978-0142425763)
- Angels in America, Part One: Millennium Approaches by Tony Kushner (Theater Communications Group, 1st edition, ISBN: 978-1559360616)
- Spring Awakening by Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik (Theater Communications Group, script edition, ISBN 978-1559363150)
Online access: This class requires regular internet access. You will be asked to check our class website frequently for announcements, updates, assignments, and readings.