Please note: The course descriptions displayed here are current as of Friday, February 10th 2012, but the official Course Catalog should be used for all official planning.
GEST 100
Introduction to Gender Studies
What is gender? How is it constructed by the social world in which we live? How are our models of masculinity and femininity interwoven with models of race, sexuality, class, nationality, etc.? We will explore these questions theoretically and through interdisciplinary focal points - these may include "testosterone," "beauty," "domesticity," or other examples as chosen by the instructors. Units: 6.
GEST 110
Gender and Feminism in Historical Perspective
A comparative world history of both gender relations and the emergence of a feminist consciousness within the past 500 years. Case studies drawn from different regions of the world will precede the examination of the emergence of a global feminism in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Topics will include the social roles of men and women, ideas about masculinity and femininity, understandings of sexual orientation, forms of systematic subordination, and the politics of modern feminisms. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 140
GEST 180
The Biology of Human Reproduction
An introductory lecture course focusing on human reproduction to demonstrate some basic biological principles. The course includes discussion of cellular and organismal processes related to the development of human biological complexity. Current research in reproductive biology and its impact on the individual and society is considered. Lecture and laboratory. Primarily for non-science majors; credit not applicable to the biology major. Units: 6.
Also listed as Biology 100
GEST 191
Directed Study in Gender Studies
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registraton Required.
GEST 195
Internship in Gender Studies
Internships may be obtained in a wide variety of field settings: agencies or organizations focused on education, health care, economics, violence, legal or counseling services, or other arenas in which gender plays a formative role. For example, students might work with a Gay-Straight Alliance or at Planned Parenthood. Students will integrate a scholarly component into their internship with the help of their faculty and on-site supervisor. Students’ Internships may be done during the academic year (at a local placement or on campus) or during the summer. Units: Variable.
GEST 200
Introduction to Feminist Theory and Practice
Examines and critiques a variety of feminist theories and how they apply to people’s lives today. We explore the tension between feminist theory and practice as we look at significant contributions to the field by women of color, gay and lesbian studies, queer studies, and the study of masculinities. Units: 6.
Prerequisite: GEST 100
GEST 220
Women in Early America, 1607-1860
An examination of the experiences of women in early America, focusing both on women’s lives and on the changing economic, political, and cultural roles they played in American society. Themes include women and the family, women’s religious experiences, women and industrialization, and the effects of slavery on black and white women. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 335
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor
GEST 250
Women's Literary History
An examination of how and why linear narratives of literary history have traditionally omitted or obscured women’s contributions. Topics will include the stereotypical links drawn between print and sexual promiscuity, as well as other factors that have impacted the roles that women have played in literary history. Units: 6.
Also listed as English 270
Prerequisite: ENG 150 or GEST 100
GEST 256
Transgender Lives
An introduction to the historical and literary representations of transgender people. Using a feminist lens, this course will examine issues such as identity, pathology, representations of the “other,” and of course, cultural ideas about gender norms and appearance. Units: 6.
Prerequisite: GEST 100 or consent of instructor
GEST 270
The Psychology of Gender
An examination of theory and research on gender identity, gender roles, and gender similarities and differences. Topics include gender stereotypes, gender role development, sexual orientation, sex education, as well as gender variations in cognitive skills, aggression, mental and physical health, and family roles. Units: 6.
Also listed as Psychology 310
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing
GEST 275
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Psychology
This course will examine the emerging psychological literature on the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) persons. Specific topics will include: sexual/gender identity across the lifespan, "coming out" as a sexual/gender minority, transphobic and homophobic bigotry, transgender and same-sex relationships and parenting, and LGBT isues in late-life. Units: 6.
Also listed as Psychology 275
GEST 280 Topic for Fall 2011: Gender Variance
Topics in Gender Studies
Explores a particular topic of current interest in gender studies, and may be cross-listed with other departments. Topics will vary with each offering of the course. Different iterations of the course may be taken for credit with the instructor's consent.
Tomboys, sissies, butches, and queens: all of them are genders that we consider ‘non-normative,’ yet when we talk about gender we are often referring to normative definitions of masculinity and femininity. We’ll choose readings from literature, social science, and films to examine these forms of gender variance, with a specific eye on the ways we pathologize “non-normative” gender. The course will provide some literary theory, some gender theory, and some queer theory, and also will also function as an introduction to other important topics such as race, class, and privilege.
GEST 300
Introduction to Queer Theory
Offers theoretical frameworks for grappling with social constructions of sexuality alongside those of gender, class, race, and other identity categories. This class, like the field itself, uses the term “queer” to designate not just people but also practices: it explores representational and interpretive strategies that highlight inconsistencies within our cultural models of sexuality, desire, and subjectivity. Units: 6.
Prerequisite: GEST 100, or another GEST class and consent of instructor
GEST 323
Reel Men: Masculinity in American Film, 1945-2000
Focusing on an array of well-known American films — “The Maltese Falcon,” “Red River,” “Dr. Strangelove,” “McCabe and Mrs. Miller,” “Chinatown,” “Die Hard,” and “American Beauty” among them — the course will integrate film theory, gender theory, and American history to address the problem of how masculinity has been constructed in American culture since World War II. Not open to students who have previously received, or need to receive, credit for HIST 400.
Units: 6.
Also listed as History 300, Film Studies 300
Prerequisite: Sophomore level or above
GEST 324
Gender and Cinema
This course examines gender and film in an international context. Topics include the construction of femininity and masculinity in film, feminist and queer film theories, analysis of film using intersectional and formal approaches, women behind the camera, and gender and genre. Units: 6.
Also listed as Film Studies 324
Prerequisite: FIST 100, GEST 100, the equivalent, or consent of instructor
GEST 350
Women and Men in Cross-Cultural Perspective
An anthropological approach to the study of gender, the sexual division of labor, marriage, and reproduction. Critical examination of evolutionary, materialist, structuralist, and practice theory approaches to understanding gender behavior and gender stratification. Topics such as transgendered sexuality, reproductive technologies, the anthropology of infancy and parenting address the diversity of ways in which cultures construct sex difference, gender, and sexuality. Units: 6.
Also listed as Anthropology 306
Prerequisite: ANTH 110 or GEST 100
GEST 351
Archaeology of Gender
An examination of the relationship between gender and material culture. Focus on how gender and gender roles are reflected in the archaeological record and on the problems in identifying and determining gender roles in prehistory. Readings include studies from both the Old and New Worlds and modern theoretical approaches. Units: 6.
Also listed as Anthropology 320
Prerequisite: One anthropology course or consent of instructor
GEST 361
Vampires, Monsters, and Man-Eaters (In English)
This course seeks to reveal the ways in which the question of monstrous difference is articulated in a variety of German “texts.” Its main goal is to examine the ways that representations of monstrousness are employed to stage complex public and private anxieties as well as to provide an expression of rebellion against various systems of hierarchy. Featured in the works of canonized authors as well as within the realm of popular culture, the representational functions of the monster can provide valuable insight into numerous aspects of German history and psychosexual relations. Units: 6.
Also listed as German 361, Film Studies 361
GEST 362
Vampires, Monsters, and Man-Eaters
This course seeks to reveal the ways in which the question of monstrous difference is articulated in a variety of German “texts.” Its main goal is to examine the ways that representations of monstrousness are employed to stage complex public and private anxieties as well as to provide an expression of rebellion against various systems of hierarchy. Featured in the works of canonized authors as well as within the realm of popular culture, the representational functions of the monster can provide valuable insight into numerous aspects of German history and psychosexual relations. Units: 6.
Also listed as German 362, Film Studies 362
Prerequisite: GER 312
GEST 390
Tutorial Studies in Gender Studies
Advanced study, arranged and carried out under the direction of an advisor. Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
GEST 391
Directed Study in Gender Studies
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
GEST 395
Internship in Gender Studies
Internships may be obtained in a wide variety of field settings: agencies or organizations focused on education, health care, economics, violence, legal or counseling services, or other arenas in which gender plays a formative role. For example, students might work with a Gay-Straight Alliance or at Planned Parenthood. Students will integrate a scholarly component into their internship with the help of their faculty and on-site supervisor. Students’ Internships may be done during the academic year (at a local placement or on campus) or during the summer. Units: Variable.
GEST 399
Independent Study in Gender Studies
Advanced study, arranged in consultation with an advisor. Students considering an honors project should register for this course for one or more terms. Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
GEST 400
Topic for Spring 2012: Women in Classical Antiquity
Units: 6. Also listed as Art History 400, Classics 540, Gender Studies 215 Prerequisite: One course in ancient art, one course in Classics, or consent of the instructor
Topics in Ancient Art: Women in Classical Antiquity
An examination of a particular topic in ancient art history. Students are expected to carry out independent research. The topic will change periodically. Course may be repeated with the consent of the instructor.
GEST 410
Gender, Politics, and Current Events in Latin America
A critical analysis of current events in Latin America with a focus on gender and political issues. Through films, magazine articles, fiction, and selected radio and television broadcasts from Latin America, students will study major events that relate and give expression to the cultural mores of Latin Americans within the realm of gender and politics. The course allows students to continue to develop their oral communication skills in the target language and, with a wide range of topics and interests, to work toward an understanding of gender issues and political events that have shaped and transformed Latin America. Units: 6.
Also listed as Spanish 410
Prerequisite: One 300-level Spanish course, its equivalent, or consent of instructor
GEST 412
Gender, Politics, and Current Events in Spain
A critical analysis of current events in Spain with a focus on the politics of gender, class, and race. Through selected films, magazine articles, fiction, and media broadcasts from Spain, students will study major problems that affect Spanish society today. The course allows students to continue to develop their oral communication skills in the target language and, with a wide range of topics and interests, to work toward an understanding of issues and political events that affect present-day Spain in the wider context of the European Union. Units: 6.
Also listed as Spanish 415
Prerequisite: One 300-level Spanish course, its equivalent, or consent of instructor
GEST 415
Society and the Sexes in Pre-Industrial Europe
A seminar, organized topically, exploring changing gender definitions, economic and social roles, family structures and functions, and styles of intimacy from 1000 to 1800. A variety of primary sources and scholarly interpretations examined. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 430
Prerequisite: Junior standing or consent of instructor
GEST 421
Music and Gender
This course will explore the relationship between music and gender in the Western world from the Middle Ages to the present. Considering classical and popular music, including music videos and film, as well as writings about gender and music, we will explore music's role as a reflection of, reaction to, and active participant in gender construction. Units: 6.
Also listed as Music History 421
Prerequisite: MUHI 201 and MUHI 202
GEST 423
Reel Men: Masculinity in American Film, 1945-2000
At the upper level, the course will serve as a history seminar in preparation for the history department's capstone course. Those taking it at that level will be required to write at least one paper addressing film or gender theory and to write a 10-15 page research prospectus. Not open to students who have previously received credit for HIST 300.
Units: 6.
Also listed as History 400, Film Studies 400
Prerequisite: Junior standing or above
GEST 445
Gender and Modernist British/American Literature
A study of the construction of gender in early 20th-century fiction and poetry. Authors include Cather, Woolf, Lawrence, Hemingway, Sassoon, and others. Units: 6.
Also listed as English 515
Prerequisite: Junior standing, an intermediate course in English or gender studies, or consent of instructor
GEST 476
Nineteenth Century American Women Writers and the Literary Marketplace
Focusing primarily on the nineteenth century, this course will consider how American women writers position themselves in relation to the literary marketplace. Readings by writers such as Sedgwick, Child, Fern, Stowe, Howe, Dickinson, Harper Piatt and others. Units: 6.
Also listed as English 476
Prerequisite: Junior standing, an intermediate course in English, or consent of instructor.
GEST 500 Topic for Winter 2012: Sexualities
Advanced Topics in Gender Studies
An examination of a particular topic of current interest in gender studies or feminist theory; may be cross-listed with other departments and programs. Topics in this series will vary each time the course is offered. Different iterations of the course may be taken for credit with the instructor's permission.
An examination of how sexual desire, practice, and identity vary both within and between societies around the world. Explores topics such as homosexuality, the sex industry, sexual violence, and AIDS in both Western and nonWestern contexts. Attention to the relationships between sexuality, race, class, and gender.
Prerequisite: Junior standing and gender studies at the 200-level or above, or consent of instructor; individual versions of the course may carry other prerequisites
GEST 503
Women Writing in French
Seeking to uncover lives that had remained largely hidden, women writing in French have revealed and shared their innermost desires and frustrations. French and francophone women writers have braved ostracism to question their identity and their relationship to family and society. Authors may include Duras, Djebar, Cixous, Bugul, Kristeva, Sebbar, Sand, Colette, and Hébert. Units: 6.
Also listed as French 503
Prerequisite: One 400-level French course or consent of instructor
GEST 526
Feminist Literary Theory
This course will examine the historical origins, practical work, and contemporary methodologies of feminist literary theory. We will address why we need feminist literary theory; how it has met (or not) the complexities raised by recent issues in gender, sexuality, and women's studies; and whether or not feminist literary theory can accommodate the nonlinearity, inclusiveness, and flexibility that it demands. Units: 6.
Also listed as English 526
Prerequisite: Junior standing, two or more courses in gender studies or consent of instructor.
GEST 549
Women’s Writings
A course on women’s writing from different times and Spanish-speaking cultures. Content varies according to the instructor’s choices. It will emphasize theoretical approaches to women’s writings and closely read relevant authors. Taught in Spanish. Units: 6.
Also listed as Spanish 546
Prerequisite: One 400-level Spanish course, its equivalent, or consent of instructor
GEST 570 Topic for Fall 2011: Bad Romance: Sex and Sexism
Topics in Predjudice: Sex and Sexism
Examination of the psychology of prejudice. Readings and discussions cover general theories of prejudice as well as the dynamics of specific types of prejudice (e.g., racism, sexism). The specific areas covered may shift from year to year.
An examination of the intersection between sex (heterosexual romance) and sexism. This seminar will explore how heterosexuality shapes and reinforces traditional gender roles and power differences.
Also listed as Psychology 570
Prerequisite: PSYC 270, MATH 117, or consent of instructor
GEST 590
Tutorial Studies in Gender Studies
Advanced study, arranged and carried out under the direction of an advisor. Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
GEST 591
Directed Study in Gender Studies
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
GEST 595
Internship in Gender Studies
Internships may be obtained in a wide variety of field settings: agencies or organizations focused on education, health care, economics, violence, legal or counseling services, or other arenas in which gender plays a formative role. For example, students might work with a Gay-Straight Alliance or at Planned Parenthood. Students will integrate a scholarly component into their internship with the help of their faculty and on-site supervisor. Students’ Internships may be done during the academic year (at a local placement or on campus) or during the summer. Units: Variable.
GEST 599
Independent Study in Gender Studies
Advanced study, arranged in consultation with an advisor. Students considering an honors project should register for this course for one or more terms. Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
GEST 690
Tutorial Studies in Gender Studies
Advanced study, arranged and carried out under the direction of an advisor. Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
GEST 691
Directed Study in Gender Studies
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
GEST 695
Internship in Gender Studies
Internships may be obtained in a wide variety of field settings: agencies or organizations focused on education, health care, economics, violence, legal or counseling services, or other arenas in which gender plays a formative role. For example, students might work with a Gay-Straight Alliance or at Planned Parenthood. Students will integrate a scholarly component into their internship with the help of their faculty and on-site supervisor. Students’ Internships may be done during the academic year (at a local placement or on campus) or during the summer. Units: Variable.
GEST 699
Independent Study in Gender Studies
Advanced study, arranged in consultation with an advisor. Students considering an honors project should register for this course for one or more terms. Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.