WMN2240

Introduction to contemporary feminist theory

Helen Johnson and others

8 points
* 3 hours per week
* Second semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: A first-year sequence

Objectives Students successfully completing this subject should have gained a basic knowledge of issues in contemporary feminist theory; developed skills in reading and analysing theoretical texts; and acquired enhanced ability to develop and sustain theoretical arguments.

Synopsis This subject is intended to introduce students to a range of contemporary feminist theories. Designed to be broadly interdisciplinary in its concerns, it will examine such issues as the formation of epistemologies; literary and cultural manifestations of phallocentrism; the construction of bodies and subjectivities; and questions of sexual and cultural difference. Discussion will draw upon a diverse range of theorists including work by Rosi Braidotti, Deborah Cameron, Helene Cixous, Elizabeth Grosz, bell hooks, Luce Irigaray, Julia Kristeva and Trinh T Minh-ha. Contemporary theoretical interventions will be examined with respect to the history of feminist movements and feminist thought generally.

Assessment Short exercise (1000 words): 20%
* Long essay (2500- 3000 words): 50%
* Class test (2 hours): 20%
* Class participation: 10%

Prescribed texts

A reading pack will be available from the Centre for Women's Studies and Gender Research.