Overview

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Explores how ideas, practices and identities have changed over time in response to social, political and economic pressures. Emphasis on postmodern approaches to understanding sexuality, and the international historical scholarship it has generated. Chronological and geographical focus of this course may vary. Content may vary from offering to offering; see course outline for further information. HIST 454 may be repeated for credit only when a different topic is taught.

COURSE DETAILS:

PROBLEMS IN THE HISTORY OF SEXUALITY: I do, I don’t: Queering Marriage in 20th Century America

This year HIST 454 builds on Professor Elise Chenier’s current research project –- same-sex weddings in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s –- to explore marriage’s diverse meanings. We’ll examine the most recent research on the subject, and participate in historical analysis labs where we work first-hand with primary sources and develop research questions. Although some might consider marriage an old-fashioned, perhaps even outdated, institution, we have some fresh questions to ask of it, and through them, we’ll look for answers to very contemporary issues.

This seminar is open to students who have a strong background in GSWS, but do not have the necessary history prerequisites. Please contact the instructor.

Through work undertaken in this seminar, students build on and further develop their: critical reading skills, understanding of feminist and other theories, knowledge of diverse methodologies, and advanced research and writing skills. They will also gain experience planning and working collaboratively on a presentation.

Grading

Materials

REQUIRED READING: