Clayton First semester 2008 (Day)
This unit provides an introduction to basic terms, concepts and debates necessary for understanding the current state of contemporary theorising on gender issues. Designed to be broadley interdisciplinary in its concerns, it will examine such issues as the formation of knowledge, the construction of bodies, the shifting nature of femininity and masculinity and questions of sexual and cultural difference. These broad issues will be considered through close reading and discussion of selected works by theorists. Contemporary theoretical interventions will be examined with respect to the history of feminist movements worldwide and the impact of feminist thought on disciplinary knowledges.
Seminar presentation and short essay (3000 words): 30%; Reserach essay (6000 words): 60%; Seminar participation: 10%.
2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week