This course is an introduction to two distinct traditions: feminist thought and feminist literary theory, and twentieth century and contemporary writing by (or about) women. Reading theory in conversation with other forms of feminist writing (fiction, poetry, polemic, translation), we will ask the following questions: what is gender (and the category of “woman”)? Why might it be a useful prism through which to do literary analysis? What were the foundational questions of feminism, and how have these evolved over time and in different parts of the world? When is a piece of writing feminist? And what strategies have women used at different historical moments to communicate feminist ideas in their writing?
- Gain a foundation in feminist theory, its main debates and concepts
- Gain a rhetorical vocabulary around concepts like gender, sexuality, race, and performativity
- Understand how these concepts are put to use in feminist writing
- Write and revise a critical essay and prospectus on one of the central themes of the course
In-class participation 20%
Reflection journal 15%
Presentation 25%
Research essay – proposal 15%
Research essay – final 25%
Students should read and follow the instructions below prior to enrolling your preferred course(s).
Please select the suitable course(s) on Student Information System during the add/drop period (June 14 to 21, 2022).
Step 1: Submit the application by filling in the online form, https://hku.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cwKcwYJXOZmERMO (Submission Deadline: June 21, 2022)
Step 2: Your home faculty will confirm on the outstanding credits that you need for the completion of your degree studies. You do not need to contact the course-offering department(s)/coordinator(s) while we are processing your request.
Step 3: Upon approval, the Summer Institute in the Art & Hummanities will inform your home faculty to enrol the summer course(s) for you.