In this course we will read, critique, and hopefully take pleasure in contemporary queer literatures. What is queer? What does it mean to produce a queer text? What qualifies a queer reading practice? Throughout the semester, we will examine representations of queer identity across a range of literary genres, including poetry, fiction, and non-fiction. Our survey of contemporary queer literature will be informed by scholarly works by Michel Foucault, Judith Butler, Jack Halberstam, Martin Manalansan, and others.
Course Goals
- To recognize, discuss, and critique major tropes and themes found in the queer literatures of this course
- To explore relations between race, gender, sexuality, and class in literature
- To identify and examine queer reading practices
- To develop a shared vocabulary that will help us engage critically and creatively in queer literatures
Class Conduct
This course will take place in a safe and dynamic learning environment. Respect for diversity, including gender expression, sexuality, race, ethnicity, ability, religion, and economic status, is necessary. I am committed to ensuring an open and productive space where we can discuss and debate a wide range of issues in courteous ways.
Required Texts
- Cherríe Moraga, Loving in the War Years
- R. Zamora Linmark, Leche
- Dan Taulapapa McMullin, Drag Queen Named Pipi
- Alison Bechdel, Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic
An additional course packet will also be made available at the beginning of the semester.