This course offers an introduction to the interdisciplinary field of gender and sexuality studies.  Through readings, class presentations, discussions, and analytical papers, you will develop your own understanding of key concepts and methodologies employed by scholars and activists.  You will apply what you have learned to contemporary issues that particularly interest you.  Throughout the course, you will push yourself to respectfully challenge your own and others’ preconceived notions about gender/sex/sexuality.  While transnational issues will be explored, and can be the topic for your written work, the bulk of the readings and films assigned for the course focus on the United States.  You will leave this course prepared to further develop your understanding of gender and sexuality in your ongoing work at UVA and beyond.

Course Goals:

--develop an understanding of key concepts and methodologies in gender and sexuality studies

--apply these concepts and methodologies to issues that interest you

--improve your ability to make an analytical argument with a compelling point and persuasive evidence

--develop skills for discussing controversial topics, articulating your own viewpoint, and learning from those with whom you disagree