Subject: WGST

Term: Spring 2015

WGST 201: Introduction to Gender Studies (100/1510)

MW 03:00-04:15 PM Jan 12-Apr 27

Daley, M

This course introduces women and men students to the methods and concepts of gender studies, women's studies, and feminist theory. An interdisciplinary course, it covers approaches used in literary criticism, history, philosophy, political science, sociology, anthropology, psychology, film studies, cultural studies, art history, and religion. It is the required introductory course for students taking the women's and gender studies major. Offered as ENGL 270, HSTY 270, PHIL 270, RLGN 270, SOCI 201, and WGST 201.

WGST 228: Sociology of Sexuality (100/2819)

MWF 02:00-02:50 PM Jan 12-Apr 27

Flatt, M

This course analyzes the issues of sex and sexuality from a sociological point of view. It is centered on the notion that what we consider to be 'normal' or 'natural' about sex and sexuality is, in reality, socially constructed. One's viewpoint on the issues surrounding sexuality are influenced by the social context in which they live, as opposed to the purely biological viewpoint that presupposes some sense of normalcy or naturalness regarding sexual relations. A range of topics will be covered, including readings that discuss the variations of sexuality and the notions of sexual ''deviance" in order to explore the cultural and societal variation that exists along the lines of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age and disability. Offered as SOCI 228 and WGST 228.

WGST 268: Women in the Bible: Ethnographic Approaches to Rite and Ritual, Story, Song, and Art (100/7519)

TR 01:15-02:30 PM Jan 12-Apr 27

Neulander, J

Examination of women in Jewish and Christian Biblical texts, along with their Jewish, Christian (and occasionally Muslim) interpretations. Discussion of how these traditions have shaped images of, and attitudes toward, women in western civilization. Offered as RLGN 268, WGST 268, and JDST 268.

WGST 337: Women in the Arab World (100/7580)

TR 02:45-04:00 PM Jan 12-Apr 27

Toman, C

The purpose of this course is twofold: It is a course that allows students an in-depth look at the diverse women who represent a number of cultures in the Arab world in nations from the Mashrek to the Maghreb. The second primary goal of the course is to study such women through the eyes of leading Arab women theorists who have made an impact not only in their own countries, but also on disciplines intersecting with women's studies worldwide. We will study the Arab woman's place in her respective society, in political and economic systems, in education, and in the family. We will also analyze her contributions to art and literature as well as to the sciences. The course will provide an overview of the Arab woman throughout history, from her origins to her place within recent movements within the Arab Spring and other current world events. As Arab women are Muslim, Christian, and Jewish, views of women within these major world religions will also be taken into account as we study the Arab woman as well as religion's impact on culture in the Middle East and in the Maghreb in particular. In the course, we will utilize theoretical texts, but also case studies as well as examples from media and the arts. During the semester, we will take advantage of teleconferencing opportunities between CWRU and two major academic units for Women's Studies in the Arab world: The Institute for Women's Studies in the Arab World (IWSAW) in Beirut, Lebanon, and the University of Jordan's Center for Women's Studies in Amman. Offered as FRCH 337, FRCH 437, ARAB 337, ETHS 337 and WGST 337.

WGST 345: Introduction to Queer Theory (100/12221)

MW 09:00-10:15 AM Jan 12-Apr 27

Fountain, T

This course will focus on selected topics in the study of LGBT literature, film, theory, and culture. Individual courses may focus on such topics as queer theory, LGBT literature, queer cinema, gay and lesbian poetry, LGBT graphic novels, the AIDS memoir, AIDS/Gay Drama, and queer rhetoric and protest. Maximum 6 credits. Offered as ENGL 345, ENGL 445 and WGST 345.

WGST 349: The Arab World Experience (100/3580)

Toman, C

Meetings: during the Spring semester before and after travel. Contact Prof. Toman.Travel Dates: 3/7-3/15/14 Campus meetings: 1/27/15,2/10/15,3/3/15 and 3/23/15 4:15-6pm

WGST 354: Women in American History II (100/7599)

TR 10:00-11:15 AM Jan 12-Apr 27

Sentilles, R

With HSTY 353, forms a two-semester introduction to women's studies. The politics of suffrage and the modern woman's efforts to balance marriage, motherhood, and career. (HSTY 353 not a prerequisite.) Offered as HSTY 354, WGST 354, and HSTY 454.

WGST 360: Global Politics of Fertility, Family Planning, and Population Control (100/12179)

TR 01:15-02:30 PM Jan 12-Apr 27

Shi, L

This course offers an anthropological examination of fertility behaviors around the world. In particular, it explores various historical, cultural, socioeconomic, political, and technological factors contributing to reproductive activities. After introducing the anthropological approaches to the study of fertility, the course will delve into the ways to regulate fertility in historical and contemporary times, various factors contributing to fertility change, state intervention in reproduction through voluntary and coercive family planning programs, and new reproductive technologies and ethical concerns surrounding assisted reproduction and abortion. Offered as ANTH 360, ANTH 460 and WGST 360.

WGST 396: SAGES Capstone (100/1970)

Hinze, S

Capstone experience in the fields of Women's and Gender Studies for an in-depth, independent project of particular interest to the student. Students are strongly encouraged to work with a WGST program faculty member, but some projects may be supervised by faculty in other areas or by other qualified professionals. All capstones require a WGST faculty advisor's approval of the proposal prior to registration. Open to juniors and seniors majoring in Women's and Gender Studies.

WGST 399: Independent Study (100/1971)

Hinze, S

Independent research project in the fields of Women's and Gender Studies. Project proposals must be approved by a WGST faculty advisor. Students are strongly encouraged to work with a WGST program faculty member, but some projects may be supervised by faculty in other areas for by other qualified professionals with a WGST faculty advisor's approval. Credit varies with the scope and depth of the project.