Spring 2008

E 370W • Gay and Lesbian Literature and Culture

Course Description

This course offers a context for understanding literature and other art forms created by and about LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) people in the English-speaking world. We will analyze LGBTQ self-representation through careful examination of texts that document the cultural traditions and political communities in which they have participated. Writing assignments will emphasize careful close reading and formal analysis of these texts in a series of short papers; all four of these papers will be revised. A final group project will draw on the variety of genres studied during the semester to create a class presentation.

Grading Policy

Four 2-page papers worth 15% each for a total of 60% of the final grade; a final in-class group project worth 20%; performance as a peer editor, 10%; class participation (attendance, preparation, and completion of in-class assignments), 10%.

Texts

Books (available at University Co-op):
E.M. Forster, Maurice
Radclyffe Hall, The Well of Loneliness
Mary Renault, The Charioteer
James Baldwin, Giovanni's Room
Audre Lorde, Zami
Cherrie Moraga, Loving in the War Years
Michael Cunningham, The Hours

Films:
Before Stonewall
After Stonewall

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