WMST 402: Queer Theory

WMST 402-001: Queer Theory
(Spring 2014)

04:30 PM to 07:10 PM W

West Building 1008

Section Information for Spring 2014

This course will offer an introduction to some of the historical and contemporary theoretical debates that have helped to shape the interdisciplinary field of queer studies. During the course of the semester, we will pay particularly close attention to the ways in which queer theories intersect with other interdisciplinary areas of thought, including feminist and lesbian theory, psychoanalysis and poststructuralist theory, disability theory, Marxist and postcolonial theory, critical race theory, and theories of transnationalism and globalization. In doing so, our primary goal will be to use queer theories both as a basis for understanding social inequalities, and as a way of developing forms of resistance to those inequalities. Specific issues we will discuss during the course of the semester include the following: visibility politics; heteronormativity and the sex/gender system; gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex identities; drag and theories of gender performativity; the intersections between race, class, gender and sexuality; intimacy and asexuality; the relationship between disability and sexuality; queer migration and border-crossing; coming-out in the developing world; and sexuality and human rights. Course requirements: two short analytical papers, one in class presentation, a final research paper (10-12 pages), and active class participation.

Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 3

Challenges rigid categories and definitions in order to create a space for marginalized voices. Examines the inconsistencies and erasures that often characterize notions of sex, gender, sexuality, and sexual desire. Explores categories that intersect with sexualized identities such as race, ethnicity, class, nationality, location, and age. Offered by Women & Gender Studies. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: WMST 208 or WMST 200
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes.