Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Notes

Synopsis

This unit introduces a range of exciting contemporary feminist theories. Broadly interdisciplinary in its concerns, the unit examines how feminist thinkers theorise around complex and challenging issues such as bodies, sexual desire and sexual difference; pleasure and danger in the realm of sexualities; bodies and body modification; fluidity in gender identity; and the cultural and social regulation of shifting forms of femininity and masculinity; Theorists examined include: Elizabeth Grosz, Luce Irigaray, and Iris Marion Young.

Objectives

Students successfully completing this unit will have gained:

1. a basic knowledge of a range of contemporary feminist theories of bodies and sexualities;
2. developed skills in reading and analysing theoretical texts;
3. enhanced ability to develop and sustain theoretical arguments;
4. enhanced skills in verbal and written communication.Third-year students will be expected to demonstrate greater capacity for independent research and will be required to answer questions of a more conceptually challenging nature.

Assessment

Written work: 90%
Class Participation/presentation: 10%

Contact hours

One 2-hour seminar per week.

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Sociology
Politics
Gender studies
Behavioural studies
Anthropology

Prerequisites

A first year sequence.

Prohibitions

WMN3240