The course is designed to introduce you to the rich, creative, and empowering ways in which women contest difference and negotiate with ideologies of oppression in a wide range of materials, including works by authors and artists such as Maya Angelou, Yehudit Katzir, Eve Ensler, Nozipo Maraire, Frida Kahlo. We will engage with the unique dynamic interactions of sexuality, gender, ethnicity, and class in each work, and the way they constitute subjective narratives about the female voice, self, friendship, intimacy, and love. We ask not only how to read and listen better, but how can we account for both the uniqueness and greatness of each work as well as for the plurality of the category of women.

Course Requirements:

In addition to weekly reading and short writing assignments, you are expected to write a short midterm paper (4-5 pages) and a final paper (5-7 pages).

Class Format:

Synchronous meetings with the instructor will be conducted through Zoom. The content of this seminar will be synchronous. This course will use Canvas to upload readings and assignments. Students are expected to have access to a camera and microphone. Arrangements can be made if the student has a poor internet connection.