Sections

           This class will start by looking at the Bechdel test, and its implications. We will look at contemporary literature and films from several genres that feature female protagonists.  Genres of documentary, graphic novel, fiction, and poetry, are among those we will consider.  In all of these examples we will consider what challenges the female protagonist faces. Do they seem different from those of her male counterpart?  How does she face and meet these challenges, and are these ways of moving through difficulties different from the traditions built from male-dominated narratives?

             Most importantly, we’ll work on developing the critical reading and analytical writing skills that will help us to articulate what happens when we approach texts of all kinds. With our course readings as our common terrain, we’ll learn to read a variety of texts closely and carefully, focusing on strategies for critical reading and re-reading. We’ll discuss strategies that will help us to craft logically organized and well-written essays and to develop persuasive and increasingly complex analytical arguments in writing.

            Expect to delve deeply into the texts (reading and rereading), as well as revise your writing extensively (writing and rewriting).