Queer

In this reading-intensive upper-level seminar, we explore how cultural identity is constructed and transformed via the lens of queerness – whose contested nature is newly relevant in our current political climate. While our focus will be on US American contexts, theoretical terms and concepts introduced in this seminar, will be applicable to other disciplinary contexts as well. Students will furthermore train their critical reading skills concerning the analysis of (popular) culture and their ability to engage with complex scholarly arguments.

The seminar aims to introduce a variety of approaches to queer identity, so students can build on the assigned reading and classroom discussion to develop individual scholarly interests. Among the topics addressed will be the emergence of queer identities and historical developments in queer activism, the impact of queer theory, the representation of queerness in media (including its commodification), and the intersection with other identities.

Oral exams for “KiL Modul 2” can be taken in German. This seminar can also be selected as part of “Basisfach Gender Studies Module.”