Course Description:

This course is a survey of the inter-connected nature of gender constructs, nation-states, and violence in history, primarily focused on the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The course proceeds in a roughly chronological order, examining individuals, nations, revolutions, and wars across the globe. We engage in individual and comparative studies to question the gendered origins and effects of nationalism and violence in history - and their continuing relevance.

Topics:

• Gender, Violence, and the State  
• Myths and Legends
• French Revolution
• Colonialism: Turtle Island
• Colonialism: Africa and India
• Impersonation/Discrimination
• The Great War 
• Revolution in Russia and China 
• Rape as a Weapon / Sexual Slavery  
• The Second World War 
• Protesting War, Remembrance 

Grade Breakdown:

Term Paper (15-page essay [40%] and presentation [5%]) (45%)  
Term Paper Outline (5%) 
Required Readings Discussions (one-page critical analysis of assigned materials, 5 minute presentation, and leadership of class discussion) (two @ 15% each = 30%) 
Seminar Participation (20%)

*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 week of class of the Fall 2022 semester.