Overview

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Explores recent debates and future directions of feminist thought and introduces students to different models of feminist writing. The writing-intensive component of the course trains students to develop analytical, writing, and research skills through a variety of writing activities and assignments. Equivalent Courses: WS398 Writing.

COURSE DETAILS:

According to the online Merriam-Webster dictionary, a polemic is “an aggressive attack on or refutation of the opinions or principles of another” and the word has been in use in English since the mid-17^th century. Because polemical writing is controversial, it is easy to dismiss as angry, as just a rant, as too opinionated for rational consideration and intellectual engagement, as too ideological. However, polemical writing and manifestos have helped women and other groups raise awareness about inequities, inequalities, and injustices, and to transform words into mobilization.

Polemics are one way to make noise, to create the basis for action, and to pursue change. If polemical texts help carve a path towards equity, empowerment, action, change, and liberation, then how have feminist writers capitalized on the power of the polemic?

In this writing intensive course, we will delve into the history of feminist polemics. We will explore different forms of feminist polemical expression and consider how polemics have helped and/or hindered achieving the objectives of feminist struggles. Through seminar discussions, in-class activities, reflective exercises, peer reviews, and an emphasis on writing, editing, and polishing your compositions, you will channel the strength of your feelings, the power of your knowledge, and the meaningfulness of your experiences in work that raises awareness of issues, challenges the status quo, and makes a difference to you, your causes, and your communities.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Information about the GSWS Department’s Educational Goals is available at this link: https://www.sfu.ca/gsws/undergraduate/courses/Educational_Goals.html

Grading

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Additional assigned material, including other readings, assorted media, films & videos, will be available online, through SFU’s Library, or on Canvas, whether as PDFs or in other forms. The instructor will provide more information on the detailed course syllabus.

REQUIRED READING:

REQUIRED READING NOTES: