Gender in Literature

“Gender in Literature” is an interdisciplinary course that investigates the myriad ways in which literature reflects, constructs, and contests gender identities and roles. By engaging with a diverse range of texts—from canonical works to contemporary voices—students will explore how writers across different historical periods and cultural contexts address themes of gender, power, and identity.

Drawing on key theoretical frameworks such as feminist criticism, queer theory, and intersectionality, the course critically examines how literature both mirrors societal norms and challenges established conventions. Topics include the evolution of gender roles, the interplay between gender and other social categories (such as race, class, and sexuality), and the mechanisms by which texts negotiate power dynamics and cultural expectations.

Through close readings, analytical discussions, and comparative studies, students will:

Develop a nuanced understanding of how literary texts contribute to the construction and deconstruction of gender.
Critically assess the role of cultural and historical context in shaping literary representations of gender.
Apply theoretical approaches to explore issues related to gender, identity, and power in both classic and contemporary literature.
Cultivate analytical and interpretive skills that facilitate a deeper engagement with complex social and literary issues.
This course is ideal for students interested in literature, gender studies, cultural criticism, and anyone keen to understand the critical intersections between literature and the evolving discourse on gender.