Gndr, Sexuality, & Wms Stdies: GenderSexuality&Environmt Lit

Courses examine the representation and construction of gender and sexuality in literature. Representative topics: Gender, Sexuality and Identity in American Poetry. May be repeated for credit with different content. Topics vary by offering; periodic offering at intervals that may exceed four years. Cross-listed with: ENGL 1270.

Open to degree and PACE students Cross-listed with: ENGL 1270 A.

In this course, we will consider the intersections of gender, sexuality, and environmental literature. We will examine different forms of literature, including poetry, novels, and creative nonfiction, as well as critical texts that propose ways of understanding gender and sexuality and provide lenses for reading the literature. We will begin with literature that captures the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world and consider how these texts illustrate an environmental spirituality. Next, we will explore the relationship between writing and environmental advocacy, reading texts focused on environmental justice, racial and gender equity, and Indigenous rights. We will examine these issues through the lenses of ecofeminism and intersectionality, and consider what role writing can play in advancing environmental justice. Finally, we will focus on queer environmental writing and consider how queerness can be a lens for understanding the climate crisis and climate resilience.

During class, we will have small-group and full-class discussion that will encourage you to think critically and engage in collaborative discourse. We will also have time to write reflectively about the texts and issues explored, as well as hear ideas from different small groups each week through our scheduled class presentations. Students should expect significant reading each week, as well as four reading responses, one group presentation, an observation journal, and a final paper on a chosen topic.

Students will be evaluated through participating in reading discussions, writing reading responses, conducting a group presentation, and writing a final paper.