Sexuality and Gender in History (HIST*3020)

Code and section: HIST*3020*01

Term: Fall 2022

Details

Method of Delivery:

This course will be delivered in-person.

Course Goals:

This course will examine the history of sexuality in North America from European encounters with Indigenous peoples to present debates over trans rights, paying careful attention to how gender, race and class affect sexuality. Topics to be covered include: changing ideas/practices around courtship and marriage; the development of gay/lesbian/queer identities; sexual violence and slavery; the sexual revolution; sexually transmitted infections; sex and the Cold War; birth control, and sex work.

Learning Outcomes. By the end of this course:

You will be able to explain how attitudes towards gender and sexuality in North America have changed from the 17th century to the present. As part of this, you will be able to explicate some of the uncertainties/contradictions in the history of gender and sexuality. (Participation, Exam)
You will gain confidence discussing and presenting the course material. (Participation)
You will analyze primary documents and secondary articles in the history of sexuality. (Participation, Essay, Exam)
You will improve your writing and research skills by writing a term paper on a topic of your choice. (Essay)

Requirements:

Participation: 20%
Essay Proposal: 10%
Essay (8-10 pages): 35%
Exam: 35%

Textbook and Resources Required:

There is no textbook for the class. All assigned readings will be available through Ares.

*Please note: This is a preliminary web course description only. The department reserves the right to change without notice any information in this description. The final, binding course outline will be distributed in the first class of the semester.