LIT 4612: Language & Sexuality
4 advanced liberal arts credits
What is the relationship between language and sexuality? What role does language play in shaping what we know about sexuality, as well as the various identities, desires, and practices that inform our sexual lives? In this course, we will explore these and related questions by examining some of the many terms, categories, metaphors, and narratives through which sex and its meanings have been shaped and contested in discrete historical contexts. Reading foundational texts in the history of sexuality (Freud, Foucault, Rubin) alongside theories of metaphor, narrative, and sexual citizenship, we will examine how thinking about language helps us understand sex, and how thinking about sex helps us understand language. Readings will focus on primary texts. Assignments will include weekly reading responses, a short essay, and final exam. Interested students will be allowed to compose an analytical essay in lieu of the final exam. No prior experience or knowledge is necessary to enroll.
Prerequisites: Any Combination of two intermediate liberal arts (CSP, HSS or LTA)