ENGL 151-01, First Year Writing Seminar: Genre and Gender, Spring 2011

Abstract

What is the relationship between genre and gender? In broad terms, how does the form of the text relate to its content? More specifically, how do the possibilities and limits of different forms of writing influence representations of gender? This semester, we will examine several different kinds of texts, many of which focus on gender roles and all of which we can interpret in terms of gender and sexuality. We will analyze a selection of poetry, a novella, a play, a film, and a graphic novel. Students should expect to read and analyze material that deals explicitly with sexuality—for instance, William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, or Alison Bechdel’s recent lesbian autobiography, Fun Home—and show a willingness to participate in lively yet respectful discussions about sexuality and gender. Assignments will include outlines, responses, drafts, three short papers, and a longer final paper. We will pursue the art of engaged conversation, share our work, and envision writing as a daily practice and recursive process.