Fall 2023
Courses in the WGSS curriculum:
WGSS 200: Introduction to WGSS
Section 01 | Davidson | TT 9:35-10:50am | in-person
Section 02 | Van Leeuwen | TT 11:10-12:25 | in-person
Section 03 | O'Donnell | TT 12:45-2:00pm | in-person
Section 04 | Ellis | MW 1:50-3:05pm | in-person
Section 05H | Ellis | MW 9:35-10:50 | in-person
WGSS 300: Introduction to Queer Studies
Section 01 | Goode | TT 12:45-2:00pm | in-person
WGSS 300: Feminist and Queer Zines
Section 02 | Thompson | MWF 12:40-1:30pm | in-person
WGSS 300: Queer Families
Section 03 | Kelley | MW 1:50-3:05pm | in-person
WGSS 301: Feminist Blogging: Writing for Shout Out!
Marsh | TT 2:20-3:35pm | in-person
HIST 326: How Cars Changed Everything
Borg | MW 3:25-4:40pm | in-person
WGSS 337 / SOCI 337: Sociology of Gender
Ezzell | TT 11:10-12:25 | in-person
WGSS 355: American Women at War
Underwood | M 5-7:30pm | in-person
WGSS 367: Sociology of Sexuality
Bryson | Asynchronous | online
WGSS 370: Queer Literature
Goode | TT 2:20-3:35pm | in-person
HIST 449: Women and Fascism
Davidson | TT 11:10-12:25 | in-person
WGSS 420: Feminist Rhetorics
Almjeld | MW 1:50-3:05pm | in-person
WGSS 492: Internships in WGSS
Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Expression Office | Angelo
WGSS Social Media | Thompson
WGSS Student Ambassador | Thompson
Friendly City Safe Space Intern | Thompson
Courses that require a course directive:
HUM 200: Women's Voices in the Francophone World
Section 06 | Polanz | MW 8-9:15am | in-person
ENG 22: Gender and Literature
Thompson | MWF 10:20-11:10am | in-person
ART 232: Introduction to Fiber Arts (Structures)
Section 01/02 | Mertens | MW 12:10-2:40pm and 3:40-6:10pm | in-person
HON 300: Women and Leadership
Underwood | W 1:30-4pm | in-person
SCOM 313: Sexuality, Culture and Communications
Hobson | M 3:25-5:55pm | in-person
HIST 339: History of American Women in Politics
Gonzalez | MW 9:35-10:50am | in-person
POSC 341: Social Movements in the US and Abroad
Wylie | MW 3:25-4:40pm | in-person
POSC 371: Global Black Feminist Politics
Section 02 | Swift | MW 1:50-3:05pm | in-person
GEOG 377: Feminist Geography
Yurco | TT 2:20-3:35pm | in-person
ENG 408: Advanced Studies in African American Literature: African American Women's Writing and the Wintergreen Women Writer's Collective
Section 01 | Godfrey | M 4:00-6:45pm | in-person
ARTH 427: Saints, Sinners, and Queens: Art, Manuscripts, and Pre-Modern Women
Section 01 | Harvey | TT 9:35-10:50am | in-person
Spring 2023
Courses in the WGSS Curriculum:
WGSS 200: Introduction to WGSS
Section 01 | Thompson | MWF 9:10-10:05 | in-person
Section 02 | Marsh | TT 2:20-3:35 | in-person
Section 03 | Paley | MW 5-6:15pm | online
Section 04 | Hobson | TT 9:35-10:50am | in-person
WGSS / SCOM 301: Feminist Blogging: Writing for Shout Out!
Marsh | TT 3:55-5:10pm | in-person
PSYC 310: Gender and Psychology
Melchiori | TTh 9:35-10:50am | in-person
HIST 320: American Women's History
Westkaemper | MWF 12:40-1:30pm | in-person
HIST 321: Gender and Sexuality in Modern Europe
Davidson | MW 1:50-3:05pm | in-person
WGSS / SOCI 337: Sociology of Gender
Ezzell | TTh 11:10-12:25 | in-person
WGSS / SCOM 348: Gender and Communication
Aleman | TT 2:20-3:35pm | in-person
SOCI 336: Race and Ethnicity
Bryson | Asynchronous | online
ANTH 360: Medical Anthropology
Howes-Mischel | TT 2:20-3:35pm | in-person
WGSS / POSC 383: Women and Politics
Pruitt | in-person
WGSS / JUST 386: Sexual Orientation, Law, and Justice
Robinson | Th 3:55-6:25pm | hybrid
ENG 423: Reproductive Dystopias
Thompson | MWF 11:20-12:10 | in-person
WGSS / BIO 485E: Gender, Biology and Society
Bauerle | TT 2:20-3:35 | in-person
WGSS 492: Internships
Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Expression Office Social Media| in-person
Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Expression Office | in-person
WGSS Social Media | Thompson
WGSS Program Ambassador | Thompson
Courses that require a course directive:
HUM 200: Women's Voices in the Francophone World
Polanz | MW 8-9:15am | in-person
ENG 221: The Fantastic Feminine: History, Gender and Wonder
Section 02 | Delgadillo | MW 9:35-10:50am | in-person
HUM 252: Feminisms in Latinx Pop Culture
HON 300: American Women at War
THEA 303: Community-Engaged & Activist Theatre
Rhoades | Th 2:20-3:35pm and Sun 2:30-4pm | in-person
ENG 348: Studies in Linguistics and the English Language: Language and Gender
Childs | MW 9:35-10:50am | in-person
JUST 301: Black Feminist Abolitionist Praxis
Benjamin | 3:55-6:25pm | in-person
ENG 362: African American Womyn's Poetry
L Renee | TT 2:20-3:35pm | in-person
ANTH 395: Women, Culture and Power in Africa
Section 01 | Kilimo | MW 3:25-4:40pm | in-person
SOCI 395: Special Topics in Sociology: The Black Family
Section 01 | Faulk | TT 9:35-10:50am | in-person
ENG 403: Women Writers of the British 18th Century
Goode | TT 12:45-2:00pm | in-person
Fall 2022
Courses in the WGSS curriculum:
WGSS 200: Intro to WGSS
Section 01 | Chaddock | TT 5:30-6:15pm | online
Section 02 | Chaddock | MW 5:30-6:145pm | online
Section 03 | Davidson | MWF 12:40-1:30pm | in-person
Section 04 | Davidson | MWF 1:50-2:40pm | in-person
Section 05 | Del Vecchio | TT 11:10-12:25 | in-person
WGSS 300: Queer Families
Section 01 | Shrewsbury | TT 11:10-12:25 | in-person
WGSS 301: Shout Out! Feminist Blog
Section 01 | Marsh | W 5:30 | online
JUST 341: Gender and Justice
Spivey | MWF 1:50-2:40pm| Hybrid
WGSS 348 / SCOM 348: Communication and Gender
Aleman | TT 12:45-2:00pm | in-person
SOCI 354: Social Inequality
Section 01 | Bryson | online
WGSS 368: Latin American Women Writers in Translation
Section 01 | Delgaldillo | MW 1:50-3:05pm| in-person
WGSS 369: Feminist Literary Theory
Section 01 | Thompson | MW 1:50-3:05pm | in-person
WGSS 370: Queer Literature
Section 01 | Goode | TTh 12:45-2; 5:30-7:30 (film) | in-person
ANTH / WGSS 376: Anthropology of Reproduction
Section 01 | Howes-Mischel | TTh 11:10-12:25 | in-person
WGSS 492: Internships
Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Expression Office | Melchaske
WGSS Social Media | Thompson
LGBTQ Studies Colloquium | Thompson
Courses that require a course directive:
ENG 222: Gender and Literature
Section 01 | Thompson | MWF 9:10-10am | in-person
ART 234: Introduction to Fiber Arts (Surfaces)
Section 01/02 | Mertens | in-person
POSC 341: Social Movements in the US & Abroad*
Section 01 | Wylie | MW 3:25-4:40 | in-person
SOCI 367: Sociology of Sexuality
Section 01 | Bryson | Asynchronous | online
POSC 371: Black Politics*
Swift | MWF 11:30am-12:20pm | in-person
POSC 371: Global Black Feminist Politics
Swift | MW 1:50-3:05pm | in-person
GEOG 377: Feminist Geography
Section 01 | Yurco | TTh 3:55-5:10pm | in-person
PHIL 390: Special Topics in Philosophy: Gender, Race, and Class
Section 01 | Van Leeuwen | MW 9:35 - 10:50 | in-person
SOCI 395: Special Topics: Sociology of Higher Education*
Setion 01 | Faulk | TTh 11:20-12:25 | in-person
*Final project must focus on gender/sexuality to count for WGSS credit.
Spring 2022
Courses in the WGSS curriculum:
WGSS 200: Intro to WGSS
Section 01 | Marsh | TT 11:10-12:25 | in-person
Section 02 | Walala | MW 5:35-6:50pm | in-person
WGSS 301: Shout Out Blog
Section 01 | Kohl | in-person
WGSS 300 / HON 200: Poor Mothers: Welfare, Love, Labor, Inequality
Davis | in-person
WGSS 347 / SOCI 347: Queer Theories of Gender and Inequality
Bryson | Asynchronous | Online
WGSS 348 / SCOM 348: Communication and Gender
Aleman | TT 11:10-12:25 | in-person
WGSS 355 / MSCI 355: American Women at War
Underwood | M 5-7:45 | in-person
WGSS 383 / POSC 383: Women and Politics in Comparative Perspective
Wylie | TT 12:45-2pm | in-person
WGSS 386 / JUST 386: Sexual Orientation, Law and Justice
Robinson | Th 2:20-4:50pm | in-person
WGSS 485 / ISAT 485: Gender Issues in Science
Temple | MW 1:50-3:05pm | in-person
WGSS 492: Social Media Internship
REL 306: Gender and Sexuality in Islam
Uy | MW 3:25-4:40pm | in-person
HIST 320: Women in US History
Westkaemper | TT 9:35-10:50am | in-person
HIST 326: The Automobile in 20th C. America*
Borg | TT 11:10-12:25 | in-person
HIST 449: Women and Fascism
Davidson | MW 1:50-3:05pm | in-person
JUST 385: Disability and Justice
Breneman | in-person
PSYCH 310: Psychology of Gender
Melchiori | TT 11:10-12:25 | in-person
*Final project must take gender/sexuality as its focus
Courses that require a course directive:
HONS 300: From Classics to Cardi B: Female Sexuality in American Lit, Film, and Music*
Malburne-Wade | in-person
HIST 313: Latinx History**
Gonzalez | TT 3:55-5:15pm | in-person
HIST 339: Advertising and American Society
Section 02 | Westkaemper | TT 12:45-2:00 | in-person
MSCI 360: Gender and Leadership
Underwood | Thurs. 5-7:45 | in-person
ANTH 360: Medical Anthropology
Howes-Mischel | in-person
ANTH 395: Women, Culture, and Power in Africa
Section 03 | Kilimo | MW 3:25-4:40pm | in-person
SOCI 354: Social Inequality
Bryson | Asychronous | online
SOCI 395: The Black Family**
Faulk | TT 9:35-10:50 | in-person
ENG 413: Virginia Woolf
White | in-person
GEOG 470: Gendered Geographies
Section 02 | Yurco | Tues 3:55-6:25 | in-person
NSG 490: Population Health Issues and Advocacy through Film**
Schminkey | in-person
ART 234: Fiber Arts (Surfaces or Structures)
Merten | in-person
*WGSS students who are not enrolled in the HONS program are welcome in this HONS class and will be assigned a different workload
**Final project must take gender/sexuality as its focus
Fall 2021
Courses in the Curriculum:
WGSS 200: Intro to WGSS
Section 1 | Davidson | MWF 11:45-12:35pm | In-Person
WGSS 200: Intro to WGSS
Section 2 | Muhonja | MW 9:40-10:55am | In-Person
WGSS 200: Intro to WGSS
Section 3 | Mazzarella | TuTh 2:40-3:55pm | Hybid
WGSS 200: Intro to WGSS
Section 4 | O'Donnell | MW 9:40-10:55am | In-Person
WGSS 200H: Intro to WGSS (Honors)
Section 1 | Goode | TuTh 1:00-2:15pm | In-Person
WGSS 300: Queer Families
Shrewsbury | MW 2:15-3:30pm | Hybrid
WGSS 301: Shout Out: Feminist Blog
Marsh | TuTh 2:40-3:55 | In-Person
WGSS 305: Theories and Methods in WGSS
Thompson | MWF 11:45-12:35pm | In-Person
WGSS 325: Gender and Violence
O'Donnell | TuTh 1:00-2:15pm | In-Person
WGSS 341: Gender and Justice
Spivey | TBD | TBD
WGSS 490: Special Studies in WGSS
WGSS 492: Internship in WGSS
Thompson | TBD | TBD
Courses that Require Course Directive:
HONS 200: Multicultural America
Montoya | Tu 6:00-8:30pm
ENG 222: Gender and the Short Story
Goode | TuTh 11:20-12:35pm
ENG 222: Women's Literature
Thompson | MWF 9:15-10:05am
ENG 414: Jane Eye & Adaptations
Pennington | TuTh 2:15-3:30pm
ENG 423: Biopolitics of Dystopias
POSC 341: Social Movements in US & Abroad
Wylie | MW 2:15-3:45pm
ANTH 364: Anthropology of Borders
Howes-Mischel | TuTh 4:20-5:35pm
ARTH 438: Women and Early Modern Film
Shanahan | Tu 4:20-5:35
Summer 2021
WGSS 200: Intro to WGSS
Section 01 | O'Donnell | M-Th 9:00-11:40am | Online | 4wk1
Section 02 | Almjeld | M-Th 9:00-11:00am | Online | 6wk1
Section 3 | Davis | M-Th 1:00-3:00pm | Online | 6wk 1
WGSS 337: Sociology of Gender
Ezzell | TBD | Online | 4wk1
Ezzell | TBD | Online | 4wk2
WGSS 492: Internship in WGSS
WGSS 417: Women's Global Health
Ott | Online | 4wk2
HIST 321: European Women's History
Davidson | M-Th 1:00-3:40pm | Online | 4wk1
SOCI 354: Social Inequality
Bethany Bryson | Online | 4wk1
SOCI 367: Sociology of Sexuality
Bethany Bryson | Online | 4wk1
FAM 481: Sexuality in Contemporary Soc.
BJ Bryson | In-Person | 4wk1
Spring 2021
Courses in the Curriculum:
WGSS 200: Intro to WGSS
Section 01 | Westkaemper | MWF 2:15-3:05pm | Synchronous Online
Section 02 | Thompson | TuTh 9:4-10:55am | Synchronous/Asynchronous Online
Section 03 | O'Donnell | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm | In-Person
WGSS 200H: Intro to WGSS (Honors)
O'Donnell | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm | In-Person
WGSS 301: Shout Out
Marsh | MWF 10:30-11:20 | Synchronous Online
WGSS 368: Women's Literature
Thompson | TuTh 1:00-2:15pm | Synchronous/Asynchronous Online
WGSS 347: Queer Theories
Bryson | Asynchronous Online
WGSS 348: Communication & Gender
Alemán | Asynchronous Online
WGSS 350: Philosophy of Feminism
Antolic-Piper | MW 2:30-3:45pm | In-Person
WGSS 383: Women & Politics
Wylie | TuTh 2:40-3:55pm | Synchronous Online
WGSS 485: Gender Issues in Science
Temple & Davis | MW 2:15-3:30pm | Synchronous/Asynchronous Online
PSYC 310: Psychology of Women
Melchiori | W 1:00-3:30pm | Synchronous Online
HIST 320: Women in US History
Westkaemper | MWF 10:30-11:40am | Synchronous Online
HIST 326: Auto in 20th Century
Borg | TuTh 2:40-3:55pm | In-Person
ANTH 360: Medical Anthropology
Howes-Mischel | TuTh 4:20-5:35pm | Synchronous Online
SOCI 354: Social Inequality
Bryson | Asynchronous Online
Courses that require a course directive:
HIST 150: Women & Revolution
Davidson
ENG 222H: Gender & the Short Story
Goode
HONS 300: Female Sexuality in American Literature, Film, and Music
Malbourne-Wade
JUST 386: Sexual Orientation and Social Policy
Robinson
SCOM 313: Critical Sexuality, Culture & Communication
Hobson | TuTh 1:00-2:15pm | Synchronous Online
GEOG 350: Feminist Geography
Yurco
GEOG 470: Sr Sem in Envir Conserv Sustain, & Development: Gendered Geographies
Yurco
HIST 439: Babies, Precious Children, Real Adults, & Grey Hairs: Ideas about Age in American History
Brannon
WRTC 484: Writing for Nonprofits
Gumnior/Molloy
Fall 2020
Courses in the Curriculum:
WGSS 200: Intro to WGSS
Section 01 | Almjeld | MW 9:45-11:00am
Section 03 | Davidson | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
Section 05 | O'Donnell | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
Section 08 | Thompson | Tu 5:00-8:00pm
WGSS 300: Black Women in Media
Section 02 | Muhonja | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
WGSS 300: Welfare & Inequality
Section 03 | Davis | MWF 12:20-1:10pm
WGSS 301: Feminist Blogging
Taylor | MW 4:00-6:30pm
Cross-listed with SCOM 301
WGSS 341: Gender & Justice
Spivey | Th 2:00-4:30pm
Cross-listed with JUST 341
WGSS 355: American Women at War
Underwood | TBD
Cross-listed with MSCI 355
WGSS 370: Queer Lit
Goode | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm & Film Screening Th 5:00-7:00pm
Cross-listed with ENG 370
WGSS 376: Anthropology of Reproduction
Howes-Mischel | MW 2:30-3:45pm
Cross-listed with ANTH 376
ENG 423: Gender, Sexuality, & Ubuntu
Muhonja | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
PSYC 310: Psychology of Gender
Melchiori | Th 2:00-4:30pm
HIST 319: Women at Work in US History
Westkaemper | MWF 2:30-3:20pm
HIST 449: Women & Fascism
Davidson | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
ITAL/ENG: Woman Question in Renaissance
Cardillo | MW 9:45-11:00am
Cross-listed with ENG
MSCI 360: Gender & Leadership
Underwood | TBD
Courses that require a course directive form:
ENG 222: Women's Literature
Section 01 | Thompson | MW 2:30-3:45pm
Section 02 | Thompson | MW 5:30-5:45pm
ENG 222: Gender and Short Story
Goode | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
THEA 303: Feminism and Performance
Del Vecchio | TuTh 12:30-1:45
ENG 403: Women Writers in the 18th C
Goode | TuTh 11:00-12:15pm
ARTH 489: Art & Activism
Shanahan | Tu 5:00-7:30pm
GEOG 350: Special Topic - Feminist Geographies
Yurco | TuTh 3:30-4:45
Summer 2020
HUM 200: Great Works in Girlhood
Sections 01 & 02 | Almjeld | Online | 4wk1
WGSS 337: Sociology of Gender
Ezzell | Online | 4wk1
SOCI 367: Sociology of Sexuality
Bryson | Online | 4wk1
JUST 386: Sexual Orientation & Policy
Robinson | Online | 4wk1
WGSS 337: Sociology of Gender
Ezzell | Online | 4wk2
SOCI 367: Sociology of Sexuality
Bryson | Online |4wk2
SOCI 354: Sociology of Sexuality
Bryson | Online | 4wk2
WGSS 200: Intro to WGSS
Thompson | Online | 4wk2
Spring 2020
WGSS 200: Intro to WGSS
Section 01 | Bodkin | MWF 11:15-12:05pm | In-person
Section 02 | Hobson | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm | In-Person
Section 03 | Underwood | TuTh 11:00-12:15pm | In-Person
WGSS 301: Feminist Blogging
Taylor | MWF 9:05-9:55am | In-Person
Cross-listed with SCOM 301
WGSS 348: Comm and Gender
Alemán | TuTh 11:00-12:15pm | In-Person
Cross-listed with SCOM 348
WGSS 337: Sociology of Gender
Ezzell | TuTh 9:30-10:45 | In-Person
Cross-listed with SOCI 337
WGSS 355: Women at War
Underwood | M 5:40-7:00pm |In-Person
Cross-listed with MSCI 355
WGSS 347: Queer Theories
Bryson | Asynchronous | Online
Cross-listed with SOCI 347
WGSS 383: Women and Politics
Wylie | MW 2:30-3:45pm | In-Person
Cross-listed with POSC 383
WGSS 485: Gender and Science
Temple & Davis | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm | In-Person
Cross-listed with ISAT 485
ANTH 360: Medical Anthropology
Howes-Mischel | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm | In-Person
HIST 320: US Women's History
Westkaemper | MWF 1:25-2:15pm | In-Person
HIST 448: Gender in Latin America
McCleary | MW 2:30-3:45pm | In-Person
Courses that require a course action form:
ENG 322: Africana Women in the Media
Muhonja | MWF 11:15-12:05pm | In-Person
MSCI 360: Gender and Leadership
Underwood | Th 5:00-7:30pm | In-Person
ENG 222: Women's Literature
Thompson | MWF 12:20-1:10pm | In-Person
SCOM 313: Sexuality, Culture, and Comm
Section 02 | Hobson | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm | In-Person
SCOM 318: Human Trafficking
Bodkin | W 5:00-8:00pm | In-Person
POSC 391: Politics and Policy of Motherhood
Wrighten | TuTh 3:30-4:15pm | In-Person
Fall 2019 Courses
WGSS 200: Introduction to Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Section 0001 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 10:10-11:00am
Section 0002 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 11:00-12:15pm
Section 0003 | Besi Muhonja | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
Section 0004 | Beth Hinderliter | TuTh 11:00am-12:15pm
Cross-disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies minor.
WGSS 300: Special Topics in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Topic: Sister Speak: An Intersectional Feminist Zine
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Students will study the history of zines and feminist print culture, feminist creative expression and DIY culture, the feminist art movement, and the fundamentals of intersectional feminist theory in preparation for constructing individual zines. We will also produce a collaborative group zine. Texts will include: Audre Lorde, Sister Outsider, Cherrie Moraga & Gloria Anzaldua, This Bridge Called My Back, Adela Licona, Zines in Third Space, Alison Piepmeier, Girl Zines, Tressie McMillan Cottom, Thick… additional readings as pdf’s. As a class we will visit the JMU Libraries Special Collection to look at back issues of Sister Speak, attend the Richmond Zine Fest (October) and VCU zine archive, and attend the Feminisms and Rhetorics conference at JMU (November). Students will also prepare to host a zine workshop with Harrisonburg community members. Crosslisted with ENG 302
WGSS 341: Gender and Justice
Section 0001 | Sue Spivey | Th 2:00-4:30pm
This course is an interdisciplinary examination of the causes, structure and consequences of gender oppression. Consistent with the social justice track of the major, notions of fairness, justice, and equality with respect to gendered social, political and economic relations will be examined. Crosslisted with JUST 341.
WGSS 368: Women's Literature
Topic: Women and the Kunstlerroman
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
This course explores women’s literature through a focus on the Kunstlerroman or artist’s novel. By comparing these texts to the traditional Bildungsroman and drawing on relevant feminist literary criticism, we will explore issues faced by women artists, the suppression and expression of their art, and its relationship to the unique experiences of women within patriarchal societies. We will also examine the politics of canon formation and consider the intersection of gender with other salient markers of identity such as race/ethnicity, social class, and sexuality. Crosslisted with ENG 368
WGSS 370: Queer Literature
Topic: Queer Identites, Queer Communities
Section 0001 | Dawn Goode |TuTh 3:30-4:45pm & Th film session 5:00-7:00pm
This course is an introductory survey of LGBTQ+ literary and social history. While the majority of our texts will be novels, we will supplement these with poems, short stories, and personal essays. Through the texts of LGBTQ-identified authors, we will trace the evolving construction of queer identities and queer communities. We will also explore how queer subjectivity intersects with other forms of social identity, including gender, class, race, and nationality. As a mandatory component to the course, we will view documentaries / films relevant to both queer history and contemporary queer reality. These screenings will take place Thursday evenings from 5:00—7:00pm. Crosslisted with ENG 370.
WGSS 420: Feminist Rhetorics
Section 0001 | Jen Almjeld |TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Surveys key women figures in classical and contemporary rhetorical traditions and challenges the strategies used to historicize this tradition from feminist perspectives. Explores diverse feminist rhetorical discourses informed by race, sexual orientation, ethnicity and social class.
WGSS 492: Feminisms and Rhetorics Conference Intern
Section 0001 | Jen Almjeld | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Organizers of the 12th Biennial Feminisms and Rhetoric Conference seek a student to serve as an assistant conference coordinator. The student intern will report to the conference chair and will assist in a number of tasks in preparation for the November 2019 conference as well as participating in the conference events held Nov 13-19, 2019. Some possible responsibilities include: event planning, program editing, communication with conference attendees, help meeting accessibility requirements for the conference, working registration table at the conference, serve as contact for keynote speakers, etc.. Internship is available for 1-3 credit hours. Those interested, should submit a 1-page letter or interest outlining the student’s interest in the position as well as any past coursework, work experience or other experience that might recommend the student to the position. Inquiries and letters of interest should be sent to Dr. Jen Almjeld at almjeljm@jmu.edu by April 15, 2019.
ANTH 370: Topics in the Anthropology of Gender
Section 0001 | Clare Terni | MWF 9:05-9:55am
This course examines the many ways in which gender is constructed and negotiated in different historical and social contexts. Topics will vary with the instructor to include both cultural and biocultural perspectives.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credits:
ENG 222: Genre(s)
Topic: Gender and the Short Story
Section 0002 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 12:00-1:45pm
An examination of representative works in a literary genre, in a set of related literary subgenres, or in both a literary genre and one or more closely connected genres in other humanities disciplines. May be used for general education credit.
ENG 362: African American Poetry
Topic: Anthologizing African American Poetry
Section 0001 | Mollie Godfrey | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
This course examines a broad range of African American poetry from the 18th century to the present day by looking at the way African American Poetry has been defined and selected for publication in major anthologies at key moments in history. Students will also consider the longer publication histories of certain poems to see what light these different contexts shed on the poems, and vice versa. *Final project must have gender or sexuality as the focus
ENG 414: The Many Lives of Jane Eye
Section 0001 | Heidi Pennington | MWF 12:20-1:10pm
Since Jane Eyre’s publication in 1847, there have been a number of adaptations of Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel about the eponymous governess, who is “poor, obscure, plain” but distinctly independent-minded. Jane famously “resists all the way” as she struggles in and writes her way through a class-conscious, patriarchal world. In this course we’ll ask what it is about Jane Eyre that makes it so consistently compelling to audiences in different times and places. What changes with each new imagining? And how do we, as readers or viewers, identify a “Jane Eyre” story across these different media? Beginning with an extended analysis of Brontë’s classic novel and diverse critical approaches to it, we will then examine its reincarnation in several texts of literature and film. These will include the play Jane Eyre by John Brougham, Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier, Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys, Jane Steele by Lindsay Faye, Rebecca by Alfred Hitchcock, and Jane Eyre by Cary Fukunaga. Throughout the semester we will pay close attention to narrative and filmic form, theories of adaptation, and representations of gender, race, and class to inform our understanding of Jane Eyre’s persistence and cultural significance.
HIST 319: Women at Work in U.S. History
Section 0001 | Emily Westkaemper | MWF 9:05-9:55am
This course examines the experiences of women employed in a variety of industries and workplaces in twentieth-century U.S. history. Topics include women’s employment opportunities, experiences of sexism and other biases, collective action to change working conditions, innovation and entrepreneurship of women, and popular culture portrayals of gender in workplaces.
REL 306: Women and Gender in Islam
Section 0001 | Rahel Fischbach | TuTh 5:00-6:15pm
This course investigates how particular gender roles, identities, and relationships become signified as Islamic, and the ways in which Muslim women continually re-negotiate the boundaries of gender in living an authentic religious life. Topics will include Qur`anic revelations, the formation of Islamic jurisprudence, sexual ethics, representations of Muslim women in colonial discourse, as well as the role of women in ritual practice and feminist movements.
SOCI 354: Social Inequality
Section 0001 | Bethany Bryson | Online
Course covers the systems of stratification and inequality in the United States including race, class, gender, religion, sexuality, ethnicity, and nationality. Discussion will center on their role in providing rationales for oppression and discrimination in society and their relationship to the distribution of power and ideological control. This course is restricted to sociology students during early enrollment. WGSS majors will need to add themselves to the waiting list during their early appointment window for a shot at ultimately finding a spot.
SOCI 367: Sociology of Sexuality
Section 0001 | Bethany Bryson | Online
This course examines issues in recent history as a means to introduce, develop and enhance critical thinking skills and to supplement writing, oral communication, library and computing skills objectives for General Education Cluster One. A seminar format allows for careful examination of issues in both oral and written formats. The course emphasizes the development and articulation of well-reasoned arguments in organized and grammatically acceptable prose. May be used for general education credit. May not be used for major credit. This course is restricted to sociology students during early enrollment. WGSS majors will need to add themselves to the waiting list during their early appointment window for a shot at ultimately finding a spot.
Summer 2019
WGSS 337: Sociology of Gender
First Four Week Session | Matt Ezzell | Online
Second Four Week Session | Matt Ezzell | Online
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction.
WGSS 368: Women's Literature
Second Four Week Session | Mary Thompson | Online
A study of literature by women. Cross-listed with ENG 368.
WGSS 417: Women's Global Health and Human Rights
Second Four Week | Kathy Ott Walter | Online
An international and human rights approach providing an overview of health issues within the context of a woman`s life cycle. Attention will be given to critical issues of women`s health such as access to health care and gender based violence. Such issues as sexuality, nutrition, diseases affecting women, violence, harmful traditional practices, and sex trafficking will be discussed. Cross-listed with NSG 417 and HTH 417.
SOCI 354: Social Inquality
First Four Week Session | Bethany Bryson | Online
Course covers the systems of stratification and inequality in the United States including race, class, gender, religion, sexuality, ethnicity, and nationality. Discussion will center on their role in providing rationales for oppression and discrimination in society and their relationship to the distribution of power and ideological control.
Courses that May Receive Substitute Credit:
HUM 200: Great Works
Topic: Cultural Constructions of Girlhood
First Four Week Session | Jennifer Almjeld | Online
Second Four Week Session | Jennifer Almjeld | Online
Books we read as children are important: they shape us as readers, as thinkers, as people. The stories of our childhood often impact who we will become and so might reveal new insights when analyzed in adulthood. This section moves beyond children’s literature approaches, however, as we will interrogate depictions of girlhood in literature and popular media with particular attention paid to personal performances of girlhood and femininity in a variety of texts – the pages of great books, excerpts from film and television, popular songs, and online content. This online course includes intensive examination of great literary works that focus on key issues of knowledge and reality, meaning and purpose, ethics, and aesthetics, with emphasis on cultural constructions of girl identities and ways girls have been written by others and may be writing themselves. Particular attention will be paid to body image, the importance of place, and normative gender roles.
HUM 251: Modern Perspectives
Topic: Ecofeminism
Second Four Week Session | Beth Hinderliter | Online
In Western modernity, how have women been treated as inferior to men, ‘nature’ seen as inferior to ‘culture’, and humans separated from the natural environment? In this course, we will examine connections within the humanities between women and climate justice, with an emphasis how marginalized communities, particularly women and people of color, are least responsible for, but hardest hit by ecological destruction, eco-violence and climate change.
SOCI 367: Sociology of Sexuality
First Four Week Session | Bethany Bryson | Online
Second Four Week Session | Bethany Bryson | Online
This course examines sociological theory and research on sexual behaviors, identities, cultures, and social movements, investigating how sexuality is shaped by society and its social institutions. In addition, the course examines how sociological research on sexuality is conducted, how society shapes the sociological study of sexuality, the unique ethical concerns and methodological challenges in researching sexuality, and the place of sociology in shaping discourse and social policy on relevant social issues.
Spring 2019
WGSS 200: Introduction to Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Section 0002 | Melissa Aleman | MW 2:30-3:45pm
Section 0003 | Beth Hinderliter | TuTh 11:00-12:15pm
Section 0004 | Larissa Brian | MW 2:30-3:45pm
Cross-disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies minor.
WGSS 300: Special Topics in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Topic: Marriage Equality
Section 0001 | Kristen Shrewsbury| TuTh 9:30-10:45am
This course is a feminist interdisciplinary examination of marriage, with special attention paid to same-sex marriage in the sociopolitical context of the United States. Drawing on perspectives from economics, law, psychology, sociology, queer studies, communication studies, and women’s and gender studies, we will investigate the dynamic historical marriage narrative that brings us to modern day marriage equality and the current state of marriage.
WGSS 300: Special Topics in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Topic: Feminist Ethics
Section 0002 | Pia Piper-Antolic| TuTh 9:30-10:45am
The goal of this course is to explore questions about feminism in ethical theory and practice. Students will read about and critically discuss questions such as What does a ‘feminist’ ethics look like?, Does traditional ethics speak to the experience of all human beings regardless of gender or race?, or Is there such a thing as a distinctively feminine ethical experience or sensibility like ‘care’? In addition to these questions, this course will also address recent feminist analysis and criticism of the domination and oppression governing women’s current social reality, including sexual violence, the ethics and politics of family and work, and global justice.
WGSS/SCOM 302: Third Wave Ecofeminism
Section 0001 | Alison Bodkin | MW 2:30-3:45pm
This course explores the historically strong association between women and nature, in which the image of Mother Earth is central, and critiques the poweras-domination assumption of our culture shown in the exploitation of women and of the earth itself. Religious, psychological, social, historical and scientific manifestations of this assumption will be examined, along with alternative models of power and responsibility. Students will explore the considerable research on ecofeminism.
WGSS/HIST 320: Women in U.S. History
Section 0001 | Emily Westkaemper | MWF 11:15-12:05pm
A survey of the role of women in the United States from the Colonial period to the present. Attention is given to contributions of the ordinary women, the Women’s Rights movements, the impact of women on reform and political movements, and the changing status of women in society.
WGSS/SOCI 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 0001 | Matthew Ezzell | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction.
WGSS/SOCI 347: Queer Theories of Gender and Inequality
Section 0001 | Bethany Bryson | Online
Contemporary approaches to the culture and social structure of gender and gender binaries, as they intersect with power, knowledge, science/biology and inequality. Method involves examining and challenging the cultural classification systems that inform knowledge, human action and social institutions. Requires college-level reading, writing and intellectual engagement.
WGSS/SCOM 348: Communication and Gender
Section 0001 | Melissa Aleman | TuTh 11:00-12:15pm
Study of theories and research regarding the influence of gender in various human communication contexts, both public and private. Emphasis on the critical analysis of existing theory and empirical research and the potential competent uses of communication for social change. Prerequisite: Any 100- level SCOM course.
WGSS/ANTH 376: Anthropology of Reproduction
Section 0001 | Becca Howes-Mischel | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
This course provides students with a critical and cross-cultural perspective on human reproduction. Examining how individuals draw on social and symbolic resources to sort out complicated private decisions, we will discuss how reproductive experiences are embedded in local, national and transnational politics. Topics covered may include: cross-cultural perspectives on childbearing and childlessness, kinship, and the globalization of new reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization. Prerequisite: ANTH 195 or permission of the instructor.
WGSS/POSC 383: Women and Politics in Comparative Perspective
Section 0001 | Kristin Wylie | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
A study of the causes and consequences of women’s political marginalization in the United States and abroad. The course examines socioeconomic and political dimensions of gender inequality, exploring how women have worked through social movements, electoral politics, and public policy initiatives to overcome obstacles to their political empowerment.
WGSS 485: Gender Issues in Science
Section 0001 | Louise Temple-Rosebrook | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm
An interdisciplinary course that looks at the scientific process, science practitioners, and science students through the lens of gender analysis. Students read literature, lead discussions, perform experiments, and analyze both data and processes to address the effects of educational systems on the preparation and careers of scientists, the influence of politics and culture on scientific inquiry, and the effects of critiques grounded in gender analyses on understanding the scientific process.
WGSS 492: WGSS Learning Community Capstone
Section 0001 | Kristin Wylie & Mary Thompson | Time TBD | 1 credit
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
ENG 222: Women's Literature
Section 0010 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 12:30 - 1:45pm
This course introduces General Education students to the study of women’s literature through an examination of late-20th century American women’s fiction and nonfiction.
ENG 402: Advanced Studies in British Literature Before 1700
Topic: Gender and Sexuality in 18th-Century
Section 0001 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
This course surveys English drama and fiction from 1660 until 1800. Study of the eighteenth century and its literature reveal notions of gender, class, and sexuality that shift from fluid and circumstantial behaviors to codified identity categories. Our thematic task for the semester will be to excavate from our selected texts the intense gerrymandering of identity construction that occurred throughout this period.
ENG 408: Advanced Studies in African-American Literature
Topic: The Pasts, Presents, and Futures of Contemporary African American Literature
Section 0001 | Mollie Godfrey | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
*Please note that the final project must reflect gender or LGBTQ issues
POSC 381: Feminist Thought: Black Feminisms, Past and Present
Section 0001 | Kwanda Trice | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm
This course explores both historical and contemporary critical issues in Black feminisms in the United States. If the meaning and boundaries of Blackness are—and always have been—both fluid and contested, then what is the ‘Black’ in the diverse forms of Black feminism? Given the contentious history of the ‘f-word’ among women of color activists, how might we conceptualize contemporary Black feminisms that are attentive to questions of race, class, and citizenship? Using texts from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, we will work together to answer these and other critical questions. By engaging a variety of theoretical approaches and sociocultural forms—from cultural criticism to political theory, from docudramas to welfare rights organizing—we seek to understand not only how Black feminist theories are constructed and used, but how these theoretical frameworks both reflect and inform the daily political struggles of Black women in the United States.
GEOG 470: Senior Seminar in ECSD
Topic: Gendered Geographics
Section 0001 | Kayla Yurco | Tu 3:30-6:00pm
In this seminar course we will examine the diverse ways in which geographers have considered, analyzed, and redefined gender. The first third of the course will cover conceptual foundations of gendered geographies, including topics such as sex versus gender, feminism, feminist geography, intersectionality, and the spatial and temporal politics of gendered identities and other subjectivities (race, class, sexuality, etc.), among others. In the second third we will critically examine gendered dynamics of human-environment interactions via case studies about conservation, development, natural resource management, and other related topics. In the final third we will develop opportunities for individual research papers related to gender and the environment. The course will be discussion-based with opportunities for students to delve deeply into themes through reading and writing and to facilitate discussions related to their areas of interest. Topics will be in part student-driven, meaning course material will be flexible and chosen with respect to evolving class interests and goals.
HIST 150: Critical Issues in Recent Global History
Topic: Women and Revolution
Section 0001 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 11:15-12:05pm
Section 0003 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 1:25-2:15pm
This course examines issues in recent history as a means to introduce, develop and enhance critical thinking skills and to supplement writing, oral communication, library and computing skills objectives for General Education Cluster One. A seminar format allows for careful examination of issues in both oral and written formats. The course emphasizes the development and articulation of well-reasoned arguments in organized and grammatically acceptable prose. May be used for general education credit. May not be used for major credit. If you have already completed, or are currently registered for, a Cluster One Critical Thinking class, you must secure permission to receive credit for a second Cluster One Critical Thinking class
NSG 393: Family Violence
Section 0001 | Sandra Annan | Online | 1 credit
This course introduces students to the roots of family violence, including the political, cultural, social, and economic structures that perpetuate violence, and explores approaches to changing those structures in order to reduce or end violence. Students will think critically about the local and global impact of family violence, how it intersects with other forms of oppression, and achieve an understanding of these issues that will be useful intellectually and personally.
MSCI 355: American Women at War
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | M 5:40-7:40PM
This course invites students to engage a series of issues about the role of women in the US military. This course will examine the contributions & experiences of women who served during the American Revolution, the U.S. Civil War, WW I & II, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War(s). Also included in this course is an examination of how women in military service both past and present are an instrument for societal change in America specifically in promoting the cause of women’s rights.
MSCI 360: Gender and Leadership
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | TuTh 5:00-7:45PM
Explore gender in leadership by focusing on social scientific research in sociology, psychology, political science, economics, management, organizational behavior, women’s studies and leadership that illuminates the difficulties women experience in attaining and being seen as effective in top leadership positions.
SCOM 301: Feminist Blogging: Writing for Shout Out! JMU
Section 0001 | Sarah Taylor | MWF 1:25-2:15pm
This course examines issues in recent history as a means to introduce, develop and enhance critical thinking skills and to supplement writing, oral communication, library and computing skills objectives for General Education Cluster One. A seminar format allows for careful examination of issues in both oral and written formats. The course emphasizes the development and articulation of well-reasoned arguments in organized and grammatically acceptable prose. May be used for general education credit. May not be used for major credit.
SCOM 313: Topics in Communication Studies
Topic: Critical Sexuality, Culture, and Communication
Section 0002 | Kathryn Hobson | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
This course provides a survey of the literature of sexuality and queer theories in communication studies. Using an array of theories and methods, we will be examining the social construction, performance, and constitution of sexuality and in a variety of textual representations and everyday life experiences. Part of this course requires students to be self-reflexive about their gender and sexual identities, while also being exposed to several current debates in politics, health care, representations, activism, and organizing in LGBT and Queer communities.
WRTC 426: Special Topics
Topic: Body Talk
Section 0001 | Michael Klein | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
*Please note that the final project must reflect gender or LGBTQ issues
How do culture and language affect how we conceptualize and understand what a “normal” body looks? In this seminar, we will examine the ways in which bodies are conceived, examined and understood through the lens of medical and health humanities. We will examine course topics—including gender, sexuality, race, ableism and ageism, among others—through readings drawn from health and illness narratives in the form of essays, stories and graphic novels. Assignments will include the composition of analytical texts, and the creation of textual and graphic medical narratives, with students free to frame their final project from a disciplinary perspective of their choosing.
Fall 2018
Courses in the Curriculum:
WGSS 200: Introduction to Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Section 0001 | Emily Westkaemper | MW 3:35-4:50pm
Section 0002 | Pia Antolic-Piper | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
Section 0003 | Kathryn Hobson | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
Section 0004 | Larissa Brian | TuTh 11:00am-12:15pm
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies minor.
WGSS 300: Special Topics in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Topic: Social Practice: Gender, Art and the Body Politic
Section 0001 | Beth Hinderliter | MW 2:30-3:45pm
How do contemporary art works illuminate the gendered, sexual, racial, and national character of life today? This class will critically engage how visual art practices and theory make legible forms of power and social forces which produce and discipline bodies and identities.
WGSS 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 0001 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction. Cross-listed with SOCI 337.
WGSS 355: American Women at War
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | M 5:40-7:40pm
This course invites students to engage a series of issues about the role of women in the US military. This course will examine the contributions & experiences of women who served during the American Revolution, the U.S. Civil War, WW I & II, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War(s). Also included in this course is an examination of how women in military service both past and present are an instrument for societal change in America specifically in promoting the cause of women’s rights. Cross-listed with MSCI 355.
WGSS 369: Feminist Literary Theory
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | MWF 11:15-12:05
An intensive study of a variety of feminist critical approaches and their applications to literature.
HIST 321: European Women's History
Section 0001 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 3:35-4:25pm
A survey of women's history from the Enlightenment to the Modern Era. Attention will focus on women in England, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain as well as the former Soviet Union. The course traces the birth of modern feminism in the European context and explores gender expectations, paying particular attention to women's entrance into the public, political world.
HIST 327: Technology in America
Section TBD | Kevin Borg | Days/times TBD
A historical survey of the complex and changing relationship between technology and American society from Native American canoes to the Internet. Attention is given to technology’s role in relations of power, in the home, on the farm, in the workplace and on the battlefield.
SOCI 354: Social Inequality
Section 0001 | Bethany Bryson | Online
Course covers the systems of stratification and inequality in the United States including race, class, gender, religion, sexuality, ethnicity, and nationality. Discussion will center on their role in providing rationales for oppression and discrimination in society and their relationship to the distribution of power and ideological control.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
AFST 300: Special Topics in Africana Studies
Topic: Africana Women in the Media
Section 0001 | Besi Muhonja | TuTh 11:00am - 12:15pm
AFST 400: Selected Topics in Africana Studies
Topic: Gender, Sexuality, and Ubuntu in Africana Literature
Section 0001 | Besi Muhonja | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
ARTH 489: Topics in Art History
Topic: Women in Early Film
Section TBD | Maureen Shanahan | Tu 5:00-7:10pm
This course investigates women’s roles as makers of film and as screen stars from the silent era through the 1940s. Actresses Anna May Wong (1905-61), Dolores del Rio (1905-83), Josephine Baker (1906-75), Irie Takako (1911-95) and others constructed successful careers in France, Japan, Mexico, the U.S. and the U.K. despite and through alienating Orientalist and exoticizing discourses, reductive racial and gender typologies, and oppressive legal codes (segregation, the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882). Actresses in early film, such as Musidora in the French classic Les Vampires (Feuillade, France 1915) and Alla Nazimova in Salomé (Bryand, U.S. 1920), enact the mobility and sexual liberty identified with the “new woman” of 1920s. Women filmmakers in France, the U.S., and Canada such as Alice Guy Blaché (1873-1968), Germaine Dulac (1882-1942), Dorothy Arzner (1897-1979), and Nell Shipman (1892-1970), were innovators in narrative, technique and genre. Female characters in the silent era possess an agency and sexual knowledge that were later eclipsed by more regressive ideologies of femininity, especially in Hollywood after the enactment of the Hays Codes in 1930. The course will thus explore the way that female identities and subjectivities are constructed in film and through film-making.
ENG 302: Special Topics in Literature and Language
Topic: Queer Studies and Literature
Section 0002 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm
Study of a particular literary or linguistics topic. May be repeated for credit when course content changes but not more than once, except with the approval of the department head.
ENG 407: Advanced Studies in American Literature
Topic: Literary Activists: Race, Gender and the Novel in Nineteenth-Century Protest Movements
Section 0001 | Laura Henigman | MWF 11:15am-12:05pm
A study of two blockbuster nineteenth-century novels, Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin (1852) and Helen Hunt Jackson’s Ramona (1884), and their cultural aftermaths. These popular novels were political interventions within the abolitionist movement and the Indian land rights movement, respectively. We will examine the place of the novels in the literary careers of these two white women writers; the ways in which imagery and ideas from these novels entered further into popular consciousness and discourses about race through their performances as plays; and works by 19th , 20th, and 21st century African-American, Latino, and Native American writers who responded to these works, playing with and pushing back against their racial ideologies. In addition to Stowe and Jackson, other authors may include Robert Alexander, Colson Whitehead, Richard Wright, James Baldwin, Sarah Winnemucca, Jose Marti, and Deborah Miranda.
ENG 410: Advanced Studies in Author
Topic: Novels of Louise Erdrich
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | MW 2:30-3:45pm
Study of the works of one (or two) British, American, or Anglophone writers. May be repeated for credit when course content changes.
HIST 150: Critical Issues in Recent Global History
Section 0004 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 10:10-11:15am
Section 0005 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 11:15am-12:05pm
This course examines issues in recent history as a means to introduce, develop and enhance critical thinking skills and to supplement writing, oral communication, library and computing skills objectives for General Education Cluster One. A seminar format allows for careful examination of issues in both oral and written formats. The course emphasizes the development and articulation of well-reasoned arguments in organized and grammatically acceptable prose. May be used for general education credit. May not be used for major credit.
HRD 101 & 201: Leadership Styles, Theory & Application
D.E.E.P. Impact: Developing Multicultural Competency for Effective Facilitation
Center for Multicultural Student Services & College of Education Diversity Educator Course (3 credits)
Thursdays, 1:00-4:00
Developing Multicultural Competency for Effective Facilitation will provide students with a deeper understanding of social identities and gain the necessary skills to facilitate training, programs, and dialogues focusing on areas of diversity, multiculturalism, inclusion, and access. Students enrolled in this course will be prepared to become a diversity educator in the Diversity Education Empowerment Program sponsored by the Center for Multicultural Student Services at James Madison University.
MSCI 360: Gender and Leadership
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | Th 5:00-7:45pm
Explore gender in leadership by focusing on social scientific research in sociology, psychology, political science, economics, management, organizational behavior, women’s studies and leadership that illuminates the difficulties women experience in attaining and being seen as effective in top leadership positions.
SCOM 330: Special Topics in Interpersonal Communication
Topic: Mother-Daughter Communication
Section TBD | Melissa Alemán | TuTh 11:00am-12:15pm
This course will explore the social construction of motherhood and daughterhood across the lifepsan. Using an intersectional lens, students will examine cultural representations of motherhood and daughterhood, performance of mother and daughter identities, and communication within those relationships across the lifespan. Further, students will discuss topics in the contexts of diverse family forms and systems, and institutional discourses of gender. Non-SCOM students: For permission to enroll, contact Dr. Alemán at alemanmc@jmu.edu.
SPAN 455: Women in Hispanic Literature
Section TBD | Lucy Morris | Days/times TBD
This course is conducted in Spanish.
Study of women in literature in the Hispanic world. Focus on women authors, female characters in literature or both. The course may include works from Spain or Latin America from any time period. Examination of feminist literary criticism, canon formation and other critical topics. Emphasis may vary according to the instructor. Instruction is in Spanish.
THEA 303: Topics in Theatre
Topic: Feminism and Performance
Section 0002 | Jessica Del Vecchio | TuTh 11:00-12:15pm
The pre-requisite will be waived for WGS minors.
This course explores the relationship between feminism—as a body of theory, a mode of political activism, and an identity-practice—and performance. In it, we will study the work of feminist playwrights and theatre artists working in a wide variety of styles, alongside feminist theories—both scholarly and popular. We will examine these performances in their socio-political contexts, considering the ways artists use performance to respond to the feminist concerns of their particular time and place. We will track shifts in feminist politics from the early 20th c. to today, studying, for example, the writings of the First, Second, and Third “Waves”; Women of Color feminisms; Postfeminism; Eco Feminism, and Global Feminism. We will analyze performances for the kinds of feminisms they enact, but we will also consider feminist protests as their own kinds of performance (looking at, for example, suffrage pageants, 70s “zaps,” Black Lives Matter movement’s “die-ins,” and the recent Women’s Marches).The course aims to deepen students’ understanding of both theatrical practice and feminist theory and politics. Assignments will include regular low-stakes writing and speaking exercises, a performance analysis paper, and a final project that can take the shape of either a critical essay or an original feminist performance.
Summer 2018
Courses in the Curriculum:
*You may only take ONE additional course below the 300-level in addition to WGS 200.
WGS 337: Sociology of Gender
First Four Week Session | Matt Ezzell | Online
Second Four Week Session | Matt Ezzell | Online
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction.
WGS 348: Communication and Gender
Undergraduate Eight Week Session | Alyssa Reid | Online
Studies of theories and research regarding the influence of gender in various human communication contexts, both public and private. Emphasis on the critical analysis of existing theory and empirical research and the potential competent uses of communication for social change. Cross-listed with SCOM 348.
WGS 355: American Women at War
Study Abroad: Normandy Allies: England and France
Undergraduate Six Week Session | Amelia Underwood | Study Abroad
This study abroad course will examine the contributions and experiences of American military women who have served during World II. With onsite study in both London and Normandy, this course places particular emphasis on the role of military women in the planning and execution of the D-Day invasion and subsequent military actions aimed to liberate Europe during World War II. Students will draw comparisons between the experiences of American women from different racial, ethnic, and regional backgrounds while examining how women in military service, both past and present, are an instrument for societal change in America, specifically in promoting the cause of women’s rights. Cross-listed with MSCI 355. View more information here.
WGS 368: Women's Literature
Second Four Week Session | Mary Thompson | Online
A study of literature by women.
WGS 417: Women's Global Health and Human Rights
Second Four Week Session | Mary Ott Walter | Online
An international and human rights approach providing an overview of health issues within the context of a woman`s life cycle. Attention will be given to critical issues of women`s health such as access to health care and gender based violence. Such issues as sexuality, nutrition, diseases affecting women, violence, harmful traditional practices, and sex trafficking will be discussed. Cross-listed with NSG 417 and HTH 417.
WGS 495: Special Topics in Women's and Gender Studies
Study Abroad in Ghana: June 4-30, 2018
Undergraduate Six Week Session | David Owusu-Ansah | Study Abroad
The 4-week Ghana program includes classroom lectures provided by our Ghanaian faculty partners, an afternoon of volunteer work at local NGOs and programs, and we travel to historic and cultural sites every weekend. All our activities are support by academic readings and our JMU faculty leaders manage the discussions. Often, we also bring in local specialists to lead conversations with students. Our students are accommodated off-campus at a hotel where the staff knows the program and ensures our security and comfort. View more information here.
WGS 495: Special Topics in Women's and Gender Studies
Study Abroad in Ghana (Internship): July 2-19, 2018
Undergraduate Six Week Session | David Owusu-Ansah | Study Abroad
Students who are already registered for the 4-week Ghana summer program are qualified to apply to add extra weeks of internship. The 3-credit hours of internship expands activities at the volunteer sites into full-day internships. Students have the option to select one of three internships--students work with special needs children at New Horizon Special school; or work at the inner-city after school program at Glona Academy; or to intern at Winneba Hospital under local medical supervision; and work with a JMU Alum at BK Farms. View more information here.
ANTH 370: Topics in the Anthropology of Gender
Study Abroad in Ireland: June 9 - July 21, 2018
Topic: Media, Culture, and Society
Undergraduate Six Week Session | Becca Howes-Mischel | Study Abroad
This course examines the many ways in which gender is constructed and negotiated in different historical and social contexts. Topics will vary with the instructor to include both cultural and biocultural perspectives.
PSYC 310: The Psychology of Women and Gender
First Four Week Session | Kala Melchiori | Online
Undergraduate Eight Week Session | Kala Melchiori | Online
An examination of research and theory regarding the abilities and behaviors of women and the changing roles of women. Consideration is given to biological, developmental and societal determinants of sex and gender.
Courses that May Receive Substitute Credit:
HIST 150: Critical Issues in Recent Global History
First Four Week Session | Jessica Davidson | Online
This course examines issues in recent history as a means to introduce, develop and enhance critical thinking skills and to supplement writing, oral communication, library and computing skills objectives for General Education Cluster One. A seminar format allows for careful examination of issues in both oral and written formats. The course emphasizes the development and articulation of well-reasoned arguments in organized and grammatically acceptable prose. May be used for general education credit. May not be used for major credit.
HUM 200: Great Works
Topic: Girlhood
First Four Week Session | Jennifer Almjeld | Online
Second Four Week Session | Jennifer Almjeld | Online
This section includes great works of childhood as a basis through which to interrogate modern depictions of girlhood and in literature and other texts. Emphasis will be placed on personal performances of girlhood and femininity in a variety of written, digital and visual texts. This online course includes intensive examination of great literary works that focus on key issues of knowledge and reality, meaning and purpose, ethics, and aesthetics and explores cultural constructions of girl identities.
Spring 2018
Courses in the Curriculum:
*You may only take ONE additional course below the 300-level in addition to WGS 200.
WGS 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Beth Hinderliter | MWF 11:15am–12:05pm
Section 0002 | Beth Hinderliter | MWF 12:20–1:10pm
Section 0003 | Larissa Brian | TuTh 11:00am–12:15pm
Section 0004 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 12:30–1:45pm
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WGS 325: Gender and Violence
Section 0001 | Dawn Goode | MW 5:30–6:45pm
This course explores the public nature of private violence, specifically violence committed against women in U.S. culture. Students will investigate the social, political and personal meaning of violence within a gendered context. Throughout the course students will analyze the ways in which demographic, social, cultural, economic and political factors teach us to think about women in violent terms as well as help perpetuate violence against women. Students will consider violence not only in its physical dimension, but also in its symbolic and structural manifestations. Students will also examine the ways in which ideas about race, ethnicity, class and sexuality affect the degree and types of violence committed against women.
WGS 348: Communication and Gender
Section 0001 | Melissa Aleman | TuTh 11:00am–12:15pm
Studies of theories and research regarding the influence of gender in various human communication contexts, both public and private. Emphasis on the critical analysis of existing theory and empirical research and the potential competent uses of communication for social change. Prerequisite: Any 100-level GCOM course. Cross-listed with SCOM 348.
WGS 350: The Philosophy of Feminism
Section 0001 | Pia Antolic-Piper | TuTh 11:00am–12:15pm
An intermediate-level examination of philosophical problems in feminist theory and feminist contributions to philosophy. Cross-listed with PHIL 350.
WGS 355: American Women at War
Section 0001 | Amy Underwood | M 5:40–7:40pm
This course invites students to engage a series of issues about the role of women in the US military. This course will examine the contributions & experiences of women who served during the American Revolution, the U.S. Civil War, WW I & II, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War(s). Also included in this course is an examination of how women in military service both past and present are an instrument for societal change in America specifically in promoting the cause of women’s rights. Cross-listed with MSCI 355.
WGS 368: Women’s Literature
Topic: Women and the Kunstlerroman
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 11:00am–12:15pm
This course explores women’s literature through a focus on the Kunstlerroman or artist’s novel. By comparing the traditional Bildungsroman by men to Kunstlerromane by women, and drawing on relevant feminist literary criticism, we will explore issues faced by women artists, the suppression and expression of their art, and its relationship to the unique experiences of women within patriarchal societies. We will also examine the politics of canon formation and consider the intersection of gender with other salient markers of identity such as race/ethnicity, social class, and sexuality. Cross-listed with ENG 368.
WGS 383: Women and Politics in Comparative Perspective
Section 0001 | Kristin Wylie | TuTh 9:30–10:45am
A study of the causes and consequences of women`s political marginalization in the United States and abroad. The course examines socioeconomic and political dimensions of gender inequality, exploring how women have worked through social movements, electoral politics, and public policy initiatives to overcome obstacles to their political empowerment. Cross-listed with POSC 383.
WGS 420: Feminist Rhetorics
Section 0001 | Alison Bodkin | MWF 10:10–11:00am
Surveys key women figures in classical and contemporary rhetorical traditions and challenges the strategies used to historicize this tradition from feminist perspectives. Explores diverse feminist rhetorical discourses informed by race, sexual orientation, ethnicity and social class. Cross-listed with SCOM 420 and WRTC 420.
WGS 485: Gender Issues in Science
Section 0001 | Louise Temple-Rosebrook & Alysia Davis | MW 2:30–3:45pm
An interdisciplinary course that looks at the scientific process, science practitioners and science students through the lens of gender analysis. Students read literature, lead discussions, perform experiments and analyze both data and processes to address the effects of educational systems on the preparation and careers of scientists, the influence of politics and culture on scientific inquiry, and the effects of critiques grounded in gender analyses on understanding the scientific process. Cross-listed with ISAT 485.
WGS 492: Internship in Women’s and Gender Studies: ShoutOut! JMU
Section 0001 | Katie Lese & Alison Bodkin | M 5:30–8:00pm
The mission of ShoutOut! JMU is to provide the JMU community with accurate and constructive information concerning events, legislation, cultural criticism, and re-sources for women’s rights and personal health on and off campus; to foster a safe space for members of JMU’s community for interactive, informed and constructive dialogue; as a collective, to advance the cause of women and other marginalized groups by means of these conversations; the goal of this blog is not to convert read-ers to feminism, but instead to raise consciousness of the diversity of perspectives toward understanding everyday inequities.
WGS 495: Special Topics in Women’s and Gender Studies
Topic: Black Lives Matter
Section 0001 | Beth Hinderliter | WF 2:30–3:45pm
The course examines the radical resistance of the Black Lives Matter movement to state sanctioned violence against black and brown communities. What strategies has the Black Lives Matter movement devised to defend human rights in the era of a New Jim Crow? The topics we will debate will include: mass incarceration and justice reform; the media dismissal of Black Lives Matter in favor of focus on “black on black” crime; black rage and the politics of respectability; black joy in the face of oppression; the uses of anger; intersectional queer-led politics; the relationship between the Black Lives Matter movement and the U.S. civil rights movement of the 1950s-1970s; and the contemporary politics of self-care. Meets with / equivalent to AFST 400.
ANTH 360: Medical Anthropology
Section 0001 | Becca Howes-Mischel | TuTh 2:00–3:15pm
This course takes an anthropological approach to the study of health, illness, and healing; how do different cultural systems and social institutions influence the experience and interpretation of different bodily states? Material covers critical analyses of Western medicine and ethnomedicine in both specific cultural settings and their global circulation. Topics include disease epidemics, illness narratives, public health, suffering, pharmaceuticals, disability, and health care systems.
ENG 327: The Gothic
Section 0001 | Katey Castellano | TuTh 12:30–1:45pm
A study of the origins, influence and transformations of Gothic fiction from the 18th century to the present. Horace Walpole’s The Castle of Otranto and M.G. Lewis’s The Monk are often considered to be the first articulations of the gothic novel; however, this course will outline the way Romantic women writers creatively use the Gothic novel to name previously unspeakable, violent crimes against women and assert emergent forms of female agency. Our case studies will be Clara Reeve’s The Old English Baron, Ann Radcliffe’s The Italian, Mary Wollstonecraft’s Mary/Maria, Mary Shelley’s Matilda, and Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey. The primary texts will be supplemented by feminist and queer theoretical readings of the novels.
ENG 423: Advanced Studies in Gender and Sexuality in Literature
Topic: Multiethnic Women Writers
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 3:30–4:45pm
This course examines the genre of the short story cycle as it has been used by multi-ethnic American women writers. Also known as the composite novel or story sequence, the short story cycle allows for an exploration of self and community, a question of particular interest to women writers and feminist critics. We will consider the conventions of this genre as well as how women authors have developed the genre to explore the position of women in their communities, women’s friendships, ethnic assimilation and identity, and issues of gender-based and race-based inequality.
HIST 320: Women in U.S. History
Section 0001 | Emily Westkaemper | MWF 3:35–4:25pm
A survey of the role of women in the United States from the Colonial period to the present. Attention is given to contributions of the ordinary women, the Women’s Rights movements, the impact of women on reform and political movements, and the changing status of women in society.
SOCI 336: Race and Ethnicity
Section 0001 | Bethany Bryson | Online
This course examines the social construction of race and ethnicity around the world and how they influence social processes, institutions, change and ideology. The course will include discussions concerning the intersection of race and ethnicity with other aspects of social inequality such as class, gender, sexuality and nationality in contemporary society.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
HIST 150: Critical Issues in Recent Global History
Topic: Women and Revolution
Section 0002 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 10:10–11:00am
Section 0003 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 11:15am–12:05pm
This course examines issues in recent history as a means to introduce, develop and enhance critical thinking skills and to supplement writing, oral communication, library and computing skills objectives for General Education Cluster One. A seminar format allows for careful examination of issues in both oral and written formats. The course emphasizes the development and articulation of well-reasoned arguments in organized and grammatically acceptable prose. May be used for general education credit. May not be used for major credit.
MSCI 360: Gender and Leadership
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | Th 5:00–7:45pm
Explore gender in leadership by focusing on social scientific research in sociology, psychology, political science, economics, management, organizational behavior, women’s studies and leadership that illuminates the difficulties women experience in attaining and being seen as effective in top leadership positions.
PSYC 497: Senior Seminar
Topic: Understanding Prejudice
Section 0001 | Kala Melchiori | MW 2:30–5:00pm
This course will focus on psychological research and theories that increase our understanding of stereotypes, prejudice, and intergroup relations. This material considers how the person, the situation, and society shape our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors toward people from various social groups. Most psychological research on these topics focuses on race; however, we will also discuss research related to gender, sexual orientation, weight, and social class. We will also consider the intersection of multiple identities (e.g., gender, race, sexual orientation) and learn fundamental principles, generalizations, and theories. Must be a Psychology major.
SOCI 367: Sociology of Sexuality
Section 0001 | Bethany Bryson | Online
This course examines sociological theory and research on sexual behaviors, identities, cultures and social movements, investigating how sexuality is shaped by society and its social institutions. In addition, the course examines how sociological research on sexuality is conducted, how society shapes the sociological study of sexuality, the unique ethical concerns and methodological challenges in researching sexuality and the place of sociology in shaping discourse and social policy on relevant social issues.
Fall 2017
Courses in the Curriculum:
WGS 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Pia Antolic-Piper | MW 2:30-3:45pm
Section 0002 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 11:15am-12:05pm
Section 0003 | Besi Muhonja | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Section 0004 | Beth Hinderliter | MWF 12:20-1:10pm
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WGS 300: Special Topics in Women's and Gender Studies
Topic: Disciplining Desire: Sexuality, Power, and Violence
Section 0001 | Larissa Brian | MW 2:30-3:45pm
This course affords a moment to more deeply explore and think about the terrain of public discussions regarding the social—and legal—regulation of sexual desire. To that end, we will look at contemporary public conversations that illuminate and problematize the connections between sex, shame, law, power, and violence. Specifically, we will engage in readings that have to do with the relationship between sexuality and feminism, closely examining what has come to be called “sex-positive feminism.” Topics for analysis include: the Fifty Shades of Grey phenomenon, sex education, consent and rape culture, queer/transgender rights issues, pornography, and the Museum of Sex in NYC (just to name a few). We will examine specific laws—and even court cases—that regulate sexual desire in both private and public, what feminist icon Gayle Rubin has called “sexlaw.” Through robust intellectual discussion, we will consider such questions as: How do words of law and legal precedent shape visions of normal human sexuality and enforce norms of sex; conversely, how might law enable certain forms of sexual freedom? How do institutions and media inform our understandings of socially acceptable sexuality? How does social media—and the discourses surrounding it—construct limits on appropriate practices of sexual consent? What desires are deemed “illicit” and how/why are particular bodies disciplined as a result? Collectively, as a class, we will think through these questions, with a critical eye towards identifying and analyzing public conversations that both enforce and challenge the normative ways in which we think and speak about one of our culture’s most uncomfortable topics: sex.
WGS 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 0001 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction. Cross-listed with SOCI 337.
WGS 341: Gender and Justice
Section 0001 | Sue Spivey | Th 2:00-4:30pm
This course is an interdisciplinary examination of the causes, structure and consequences of gender oppression. Consistent with the social justice track of the major, notions of fairness, justice and equality with respect to gendered social, political and economic relations will be examined. Cross-listed with JUST 341.
WGS 355: American Women at War
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | M 5:40-7:40pm
This course invites students to engage a series of issues about the role of women in the US military. This course will examine the contributions & experiences of women who served during the American Revolution, the U.S. Civil War, WW I & II, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War(s). Also included in this course is an examination of how women in military service both past and present are an instrument for societal change in America specifically in promoting the cause of women’s rights. Cross-listed with MSCI 355.
WGS 369: Feminist Literary Theory
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | MW 2:30-3:45pm
An intensive study of a variety of feminist critical approaches and their applications to literature. Cross-listed with ENG 369.
WGS 370: Queer Literature
Section 0001 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm, M 5:00-7:00pm
An exploration of texts and issues in literature written by and about gay and lesbian writers, including critical and theoretical issues as well as questions of canon. Text studied may include fiction, poetry, drama, essays and memoirs written primarily, but not exclusively, in the 20th century. Cross-listed with ENG 370.
HIST 449: Women and Fascism
Section 0001 | Jessica Davidson | Day/time TBD
This course offers a comparative understanding of fascism and women with a focus on Europe, including Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy and Francoist Spain. We will also discuss fascist movements and right-wing women in other European countries and in Latin America. The course will uncover the origins of fascism and the rise of the fascist party and the women’s branch. Prerequisite: HIST 395 or permission of the instructor.
PSYC 310: The Psychology of Women and Gender
Section 0001 | Kala Melchiori | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm
An examination of research and theory regarding the abilities and behaviors of women and the changing roles of women. Consideration is given to biological, developmental and societal determinants of sex and gender. Course meets sociocultural requirement for the psychology major. Prerequisites: PSYC 101 and junior status.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
ENG 304: Feminist Perspectives on Literature and Religion
Section 0001 | Ann-Janine Morey | MWF 9:05-9:55am
American authors and their fiction about God, faith and religion in the American experience. Gender and race will provide a constant thematic focus through a variety of novels and short stories.
HIST 326: The Automobile in 20th Century America
Section 0001 | Kevin Borg | MWF 10:10-11:00am
This course uses the automobile as a window into 20th century American life. It examines the influence of automobility on patterns of work and leisure; on struggles over gender, race and ethnicity; on individualism, consumerism and government regulation. It also surveys mass automobility’s effects on our physical and natural environments and looks at future prospects of automobility in the information age.
POSC 371: Topics in Comparative Politics
Topic: Social Movements
Section 0001 | Kristin Wylie | MWF 11:15am-12:05pm
Accepted for WGS credit if student does research paper on a social movement related to gender and/or sexuality.
Social Movements in the US & Abroad - will apply social movement theory (SMT) to evaluate several recent social movements. We will spend the first few weeks learning SMT and then the rest of the semester applying SMT to 4 paired comparative case studies. For each, we will leverage similarities and disparities between a US movement and a non-US movement to understand social movement emergence and success/limitations. Cases will include the women's movement in the US and in Chile (or Brazil), the civil rights movement in the US (including discussion of Black Lives Matter) and the anti-Apartheid movement in South Africa, the LGBTQ rights movement in the US and another case TBD, and the pro/counter-immigration movements in the US and another case TBD (maybe Germany).
SOCI 367: The Sociology of Sexuality
Section 0001 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
This course examines sociological theory and research on sexual behaviors, identities, cultures and social movements, investigating how sexuality is shaped by society and its social institutions. In addition, the course examines how sociological research on sexuality is conducted, how society shapes the sociological study of sexuality, the unique ethical concerns and methodological challenges in researching sexuality, and the place of sociology in shaping public discourse and social policy on relevant social issues.
Summer 2017
Courses in the Curriculum:
WGS 337: Sociology of Gender
First Four Week Session | Matt Ezzell | Online
Second Four Week Session | Matt Ezzell | Online
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction.
WGS 355: American Women at War
Study Abroad: Normandy Allies: England and France
First Four Week Session | Amelia Underwood | Study Abroad
This study abroad course will examine the contributions and experiences of American military women who have served during World II. With onsite study in both London and Normandy, this course places particular emphasis on the role of military women in the planning and execution of the D-Day invasion and subsequent military actions aimed to liberate Europe during World War II. Students will draw comparisons between the experiences of American women from different racial, ethnic, and regional backgrounds while examining how women in military service, both past and present, are an instrument for societal change in America, specifically in promoting the cause of women’s rights. Cross-listed with MSCI 355. View more information here.
WGS 417: Women's Global Health and Human Rights
Second Four Week Session | Mary Ott Walter | Online
An international and human rights approach providing an overview of health issues within the context of a woman`s life cycle. Attention will be given to critical issues of women`s health such as access to health care and gender based violence. Such issues as sexuality, nutrition, diseases affecting women, violence, harmful traditional practices, and sex trafficking will be discussed. Cross-listed with NSG 417 and HTH 417.
WGS 495: Special Topics in Women's and Gender Studies
Study Abroad in Ghana: June 10-July 26, 2017
Undergraduate Six Week Session | David Owusu-Ansah | Study Abroad
The 4-week Ghana program includes classroom lectures provided by our Ghanaian faculty partners, an afternoon of volunteer work at local NGOs and programs, and we travel to historic and cultural sites every weekend. All our activities are support by academic readings and our JMU faculty leaders manage the discussions. Often, we also bring in local specialists to lead conversations with students. Our students are accommodated off-campus at a hotel where the staff knows the program and ensures our security and comfort. Join us for this 20th anniversary program! View more information here.
HIST 321: European Women's History
First Four Week Session | Jessica Davidson | Online
A survey of women's history from the Enlightenment to the Modern Era. Attention will focus on women in England, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain as well as the former Soviet Union. The course traces the birth of modern feminism in the European context and explores gender expectations, paying particular attention to women's entrance into the public, political world.
PSYC 310: The Psychology of Women and Gender
Eight Week Session | Kala Melchiori | Online
An examination of research and theory regarding the abilities and behaviors of women and the changing roles of women. Consideration is given to biological, developmental and societal determinants of sex and gender. Course meets sociocultural requirement for the psychology major. Prerequisites: PSYC 101 and junior status.
SOCI 336: Race and Ethnicity
Second Four Week Session | Matt Ezzell | Online
This course examines the social construction of race and ethnicity around the world and how they influence social processes, institutions, change and ideology. The course will include discussions concerning the intersection of race and ethnicity with other aspects of social inequality such as class, gender, sexuality and nationality in contemporary society.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
HIST 150: Critical Issues in Recent Global History, Topic: Women and Revolution
Second Four Week Session | Jessica Davidson | Online
This course examines issues in recent history as a means to introduce, develop and enhance critical thinking skills and to supplement writing, oral communication, library and computing skills objectives for General Education Cluster One. A seminar format allows for careful examination of issues in both oral and written formats. The course emphasizes the development and articulation of well-reasoned arguments in organized and grammatically acceptable prose. May be used for general education credit. May not be used for major credit.
HUM 200: Great Works, Topic: Girlhood
First Four Week Session | Jennifer Almjeld | Online
This section includes great works of childhood as a basis through which to interrogate modern depictions of girlhood in literature and related texts. Emphasis will be placed on personal performances of girlhood and femininity in a variety of texts. This online course includes intensive examination of great literary works that focus on key issues of knowledge and reality, meaning and purpose, ethics, and aesthetics and explores cultural constructions of girl identities.
SCOM 413: Advanced Topics in Communication Studies, Topic: Critical Sexuality, Culture, and Communication
First Four Week Session | Kathryn Hobson | Online
In-depth exploration and analysis of a communication-related theory, context, topic or problem, culminating in a research project documented in written, oral, visual and/or multimedia presentations. Course content varies based on faculty expertise. Prerequisites: Senior standing and 15 hours of SCOM courses.
SOCI 367: Sociology of Sexuality
Second Four Week Session | Bethany Bryson | Online
This course examines sociological theory and research on sexual behaviors, identities, cultures and social movements, investigating how sexuality is shaped by society and its social institutions. In addition, the course examines how sociological research on sexuality is conducted, how society shapes the sociological study of sexuality, the unique ethical concerns and methodological challenges in researching sexuality, and the place of sociology in shaping public discourse and social policy on relevant social issues.
Spring 2017
Courses in the Curriculum:
*You may only take ONE additional course below the 300-level in addition to WGS 200.
WGS 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 2:00–3:15pm
Section 0002 | Alison Bodkin | MWF 11:15am–12:05pm
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WGS 300: Special Topics: Marriage Equality
Section 0001 | Kristen Shrewsbury | MW 1:25–2:40pm
This course is a feminist interdisciplinary examination of marriage, with special attention paid to same-sex marriage in the sociopolitical context of the United States. Drawing on perspectives from psychology, sociology, queer studies, communication studies, and women’s and gender studies, we will investigate the dynamic historical marriage narrative that brings us to modern day marriage equality and it’s aftermath.
WGS 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 0001 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 11:00am–12:45pm
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction. Cross-listed with SOCI 337.
WGS 348: Communication and Gender
Section 0001 | Sharon Mazzarella | TuTh 11:00am–12:15pm
Studies of theories and research regarding the influence of gender in various human communication contexts, both public and private. Emphasis on the critical analysis of existing theory and empirical research and the potential competent uses of communication for social change. Prerequisite: Any 100-level GCOM course. Cross-listed with SCOM 348.
WGS 350: The Philosophy of Feminism
Section 0001 | Pia Antolic-Piper | MW 2:30-3:45pm
An intermediate-level examination of philosophical problems in feminist theory and feminist contributions to philosophy. Cross-listed with PHIL 350.
WGS 355: American Women at War
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | M 5:40-7:40pm
This course invites students to engage a series of issues about the role of women in the US military. This course will examine the contributions & experiences of women who served during the American Revolution, the U.S. Civil War, WW I & II, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War(s). Also included in this course is an examination of how women in military service both past and present are an instrument for societal change in America specifically in promoting the cause of women’s rights. Cross-listed with MSCI 355.
WGS 383: Women and Politics in Comparative Perspective
Section 0001 | Kristin Wylie | 9:30-10:45am
A study of the causes and consequences of women`s political marginalization in the United States and abroad. The course examines socioeconomic and political dimensions of gender inequality, exploring how women have worked through social movements, electoral politics, and public policy initiatives to overcome obstacles to their political empowerment. Cross-listed with POSC 383.
WGS 420: Feminist Rhetoric
Section 0001 | Lori Beth De Hertogh | MWF 10:10-11:00am
Surveys key women figures in classical and contemporary rhetorical traditions and challenges the strategies used to historicize this tradition from feminist perspectives. Explores diverse feminist rhetorical discourses informed by race, sexual orientation, ethnicity and social class. Cross-listed with SCOM 420 and WRTC 420.
WGS 485: Gender Issues in Science
Section 0001 | Louise Temple-Rosebrook | TuTh 12:30–1:45pm
An interdisciplinary course that looks at the scientific process, science practitioners and science students through the lens of gender analysis. Students read literature, lead discussions, perform experiments and analyze both data and processes to address the effects of educational systems on the preparation and careers of scientists, the influence of politics and culture on scientific inquiry, and the effects of critiques grounded in gender analyses on understanding the scientific process. Cross-listed with ISAT 485.
WGS 492: Internship in Women’s and Gender Studies - Sister Speak
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | TBD
This 1-3 credit internship is open to Women’s Studies minors who have completed at least nine credit hours in the minor (or have received permission from the instructor). This internship will operate as a workshop, for which students will meet once every two weeks as a group to examine feminist writings and films, write and share informal responses, and contribute to the construction of a feminist zine. Modeled on the principles of feminist consciousness raising, this workshop seeks to foster personal growth, social action, as well as social transformation. Interested? Please contact Dr. Thompson (thompsmx@jmu.edu).
WGS 492: Internship in Women's and Gender Studies - ShoutOut! JMU Weblog
Section 0002 | Alison Bodkin | TBD
The mission of ShoutOut! JMU is to provide the JMU community with accurate and constructive information concerning events, legislation, cultural criticism, and resources for women’s rights and personal health on and off campus; to foster a safe space for members of JMU’s community for interactive, informed and constructive dialogue; as a collective, to advance the cause of women and other marginalized groups by means of these conversations; the goal of this blog is not to convert readers to feminism, but instead to raise consciousness of the diversity of perspectives toward understanding everyday inequities. Check back at the end of October 2016 for the link to an online application.
PSYC 310: The Psychology of Women and Gender
Section 0001 | Kala Melchiori | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
An examination of research and theory regarding the abilities and behaviors of women and the changing roles of women. Consideration is given to biological, developmental and societal determinants of sex and gender. Prerequisite: PSYC 101 and junior-level status.
SOCI 336: Race and Ethnicity
Section 0001 | Shaneda Destine | MW 2:30-3:45pm
This course examines the social construction of race and ethnicity around the world and how they influence social processes, institutions, change and ideology. The course will include discussions concerning the intersection of race and ethnicity with other aspects of social inequality such as class, gender, sexuality and nationality in contemporary society.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
ENG 222/222H: Genre(s)
Topic: Women’s Literature
Section TBD | Mary Thompson | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
This course introduces General Education students to the study of women’s literature through an examination of late-20th century American women’s fiction and nonfiction.
ENG 414: Advanced Studies in Genre
Topic: The Many Lives of Jane Eyre
Section 0001 | Heidi Pennington | MW 2:30-3:45pm
The Many Lives of Jane Eyre: Adaptation in Literature and Film Since Jane Eyre’s publication in 1847, there have been a number of adaptations of Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel about the eponymous governess, who is “poor, obscure, plain” but distinctly independent-minded. Jane famously “resists all the way” as she struggles in and writes her way through a class-conscious, patriarchal world. In this course we’ll ask what it is about Jane Eyre that makes it so consistently compelling to audiences in different times and places. What changes with each new imagining? And how do we, as readers or viewers, identify a “Jane Eyre” story across these different media? Throughout the semester we will pay close attention to narrative and filmic form, theories of adaptation, and representations of gender, race, and class to inform our understanding of Jane Eyre’s persistence and cultural significance.
HIST 150: Critical Issues in Recent Global History
Topic: Women and Revolution
Section 0002 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 10:10-11:00am
Section 0003 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 11:15am-12:05pm
This course examines issues in recent history as a means to introduce, develop and enhance critical thinking skills and to supplement writing, oral communication, library and computing skills objectives for General Education Cluster One. A seminar format allows for careful examination of issues in both oral and written formats. The course emphasizes the development and articulation of well-reasoned arguments in organized and grammatically acceptable prose. May be used for general education credit. May not be used for major credit.
NSG 393: Issues in Family Violence
Section 0001 | Sandra Annan | Online
This course introduces students to the roots of family violence, including the political, cultural, social, and economic structures that perpetuate violence, and explores approaches to changing those structures in order to reduce or end violence. Students will think critically about the local and global impact of family violence, how it intersects with other forms of oppression, and achieve an understanding of these issues that will be useful intellectually and personally.
SOCI 354: Social Inequality
Section 0001 | Bethany Bryson | Online
Course covers the systems of stratification and inequality in the United States including race, class, gender, religion, sexuality, ethnicity and nationality. Discussion will center on their role in providing rationales for oppression and discrimination in society and their relationship to the distribution of power and ideological control.
SOCI 395: Special Topics in Sociology
Topic: Gender, Inequality, and Queer Theory
Section 0003 | Bethany Bryson | Online
Examination of selected topics which are of current importance in sociology.
Fall 2016
Courses in the Curriculum:
WGS 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 11:15am-12:05pm
Section 0002 | Mary Thompson | MW 2:30-3:45pm
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WGS 300: Special Topics: Dress, Fashion, and American Life
Section 0001 | Jennifer Connerley | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
This course will survey the ways in which fashion and dress have shaped and reflected conceptions of gender, consumption, sexuality, religion, status, and the body in American society. Beginning with the early republic, students will examine clothing and style throughout U.S. history.
WGS 341: Gender and Justice
Section 0001 | Sue Spivey | Tu 2:00-4:30pm
This course is an interdisciplinary examination of the causes, structure and consequences of gender oppression. Consistent with the social justice track of the major, notions of fairness, justice, and equality with respect to gendered social, political and economic relations will be examined. Cross-listed with JUST 341.
WGS 355: American Women at War
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | Mo 5:40-7:40pm
This course invites students to engage a series of issues about the role of women in the US military. This course will examine the contributions & experiences of women who served during the American Revolution, the U.S. Civil War, WW I & II, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War(s). Also included in this course is an examination of how women in military service both past and present are an instrument for societal change in America specifically in promoting the cause of women's rights.
WGS 368: Women's Literature
Section 0001 | AJ Morey | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
A study of literature by women. Cross-listed with ENG 368.
HIST 327: Technology in America
Section 0001 | Kevin Borg | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
A historical survey of the complex and changing relationship between technology and American society from Native American canoes to the Internet. Attention is given to technology’s role in relations of power, in the home, on the farm, in the workplace and on the battlefield.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
ANTH 376: Anthropology of Reproduction
Section 0001 | Becca Howes-Mischel | MW 2:30-3:45pm
This course provides a critical and cross-cultural perspective on human reproduction—analyzing how cultural negotiations over biological processes place reproduction at the center of social theory and social action. Examining how complicated private decisions become public concerns, we will explore how reproduction is shaped by personal and cultural meanings—at the same time that it is embedded in local, national and transnational politics. In this course, students will explore a range of topics in the anthropology of reproduction including: cross-cultural perspectives on childbearing and childlessness; kinship, relatedness, and belonging; and the globalization of new reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization. Students also will discuss in particular why reproduction generally has been treated as a women’s concern, and how the role of men and fathers in reproduction might be reconsidered.
ARTH 419: Topics in African Art
Topic: Women, Art and Gender in Africa
Section 0001 | Aderonke Adesanya | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
Topics in African art will deal with the current thematic or methodological issues such as contemporary African arts and artists, arts of the African Diaspora, a particular media (such as architecture or the textile arts), portraiture and identity, the royal arts of Africa, African film and performance, or gender in the arts of Africa. Cross-listed with ARTH 519.
ENG 222: Genre(s)
Topic: Women's Literature
Section 0002 | Mary Thompson | MWF 11:15am-12:05pm
An examination of representative works in a literary genre, in a set of related literary subgenres, or in both a literary genre and one or more closely connected genres in other humanities disciplines. May be used for general education credit.
ENG 330: 19th Century British Novel
Topic: Narrating Women
Section 0001 | Heidi Pennington | MW 2:30-3:45pm
This course takes as its main focus nineteenth-century novels that feature fictional women telling their own stories and novels that tell the stories of women in formally significant ways. By studying how gender, genre, and narrative structure intersect and mutually influence one another, students will gain a more complex understanding of the active debates over femininity and masculinity (and private vs. public life more broadly) that characterized the Victorian period. Students will also become more attentive and careful readers of literary form, able to identify and reconsider how cultural assumptions about gender, sexuality, and class often lie latent in the structures of the stories they encounter. We will read novels by Austen, Brontë, Dickens, Eliot, and Hardy.
ENG 410: Advanced Studies in Author
Topic: Virginia Woolf
Section 0002 | Sian White | MWF 11:15am-12:05pm
This course looks closely at the work and life of Virginia Woolf, one of the best-known and most often-cited authors of the twentieth-century. Associated at times with great sociability while at others with deep depression and mental disturbance, Woolf spent time engaged both in literary circles in London and in quiet time spent living in the country with her husband, Leonard Woolf, in the south of England. She has been called elitist, as if able to voice the concerns only of a certain class, and yet her best-known feminist writings speak directly to the challenge of economic limitation and hardship. Though her work must be read in terms of material circumstances, equally important are her aesthetic ambitions that were influential to and influenced by the broader conversations taking place in her smallest circle of personal associations, known as the Bloomsbury Group. As a prolific letter-writer and diary-keeper, Woolf has provided a credible view into her personal and even psychological state, thereby making available to the public the most private elements of the self. In this course we will read selected essays and novels by Woolf together with secondary readings that illuminate the biographical and historical context of those works; our methodological approach will be informed most heavily by feminist theory and criticism, while remaining ever-mindful of the effect of formal experimentation on the views and voices presented. Students will emerge from this class with a greater understanding of Virginia Woolf and her work, of contexts such as modernism, feminism and materialism, and of critical tools such as close reading a text, approaching a work in broader biographical, social and even philosophical contexts, incorporating critical scholarly voices into their own persuasive writing, and using digital tools to conceptualize and contextualize Woolf in time and space.
ENG 432: Advanced Studies in African Literature
Topic: Gender and Sexuality in the African Novel
Section 0001 | Brillian Muhonja | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
A study of selected works by African writers, focused by theme, geography, or genre.
HON 300: Advanced Special Topics in Honors
Topic: Girlhoods, Identities, and Popular Culture
Section 0004 | Sharon Mazzarella | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
This class explores how both corporate and girl-produced popular culture artifacts contribute to differing cultural constructions of girlhoods. Examining a variety of U.S. popular culture texts--cartoons, reality television, young adult literature/film, toys, and more--we will first analyze how corporate media represents girls. In contrast, we also will examine alternative constructions of girlhoods as we look at cultural artifacts created by girls themselves--films, internet content, and more. The purpose of this course is to enhance a critical understanding of how the mainstream popular culture industries work to construct one narrow, idealized girlhood but also how girls themselves are working to debunk the myth that there is only one acceptable way of being a U.S. girl today. Open to Honors students only.
MSCI 360: Gender and Leadership
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood and Bridget Seymour | Th 5:00-7:45pm
Gender and Leadership is a 3 credit course which examines the unique challenges, constraints, and opportunities that face women and men today as they ascend to leadership positions in organizations. Topics include: theory and practice of gender and leadership, leadership styles of men and women, political and legal issues in the workplace, media representation, work/life/balance issues, strategies to facilitate equity, and personal leadership philosophy development. Students will draw upon personal/professional experience and course reflection to develop their own leadership philosophy. This course is experiential and will require students to reflect on past and present challenges, as well as future opportunities as they develop their own personal leadership style.
SOCI 354: Social Inequality
Section 0001 | Bethany Bryson | Online
This course covers the systems of stratification and inequality in the United States including race, class, gender, religion, sexuality, ethnicity and nationality. Discussion will center on their role in providing rationales for oppression and discrimination in society and their relationship to the distribution of power and ideological control.
Summer 2016
WGS 337: Sociology of Gender
First Four Week Session | Matt Ezzell | Online
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction.
WGS 355: American Women at War
Undergraduate Six Week Session | Amelia Underwood | TuTh 4:30-6:00pm
This course invites students to engage a series of issues about the role of women in the US military. This course will examine the contributions & experiences of women who served during the American Revolution, the U.S. Civil War, WW I & II, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War(s). Also included in this course is an examination of how women in military service both past and present are an instrument for societal change in America specifically in promoting the cause of women's rights. Cross-listed with MSCI 355.
WGS 495: Special Topics in Women's and Gender Studies
Study Abroad in Ghana: June 12-July 26, 2016
Undergraduate Six Week Session | David Owusu-Ansah | Study Abroad
Established in 1997, the 4-week summer abroad experience in Ghana is the oldest James Madison University program on the continent of Africa. This interdisciplinary summer program allows students to earn 6 credit hours, with an option to earn 3 more hours for those who add the post program internship. Select faculty members from the University of Ghana, which serves as the program host institution, make wonderful, stimulating and content driven presentations during the first two-weeks of our studies. Our students engage in afternoon volunteer activities at select sites. For the remaining part of the program, students visit several rich historic and cultural sites of the country.
HIST 321: European Women's History
First Four Week Session | Jessica Davidson | Online
A survey of women's history from the Enlightenment to the Modern Era. Attention will focus on women in England, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain as well as the former Soviet Union. The course traces the birth of modern feminism in the European context and explores gender expectations, paying particular attention to women's entrance into the public, political world.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
WGS 417: Global Women's Health and Human Rights
Second Four Week Session | Kathy Ott Walter | Online
An international and human rights approach providing an overview of health issues within the context of a woman's life cycle. Attention will be given to critical issues of women's health such as access to health care and gender based violence. Such issues as sexuality, nutrition, diseases affecting women, violence, harmful traditional practices, and sex trafficking will be discussed. Cross-listed with HTH 417 and NSG 417.
SOCI 367: Sociology of Sexuality
Second Four Week Session | Bethany Bryson | Online
This course examines sociological theory and research on sexual behaviors, identities, cultures and social movements, investigating how sexuality is shaped by society and its social institutions. In addition, the course examines how sociological research on sexuality is conducted, how society shapes the sociological study of sexuality, the unique ethical concerns and methodological challenges in researching sexuality, and the place of sociology in shaping public discourse and social policy on relevant social issues.
Spring 2016
Courses in the Curriculum:
WGS 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 11:00am-12:15pm
Section 0002 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WGS 300: Special Topics: Feminist Ethics
Section 0001 | Pia Antolic-Piper | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Since its beginnings in the 1970s, feminist ethics has been among the most advanced fields within feminist philosophy. In general, feminist ethics addresses issues in ethical practice – roughly, lived challenges and experiences of women as they occur within different contexts like the home, the public sphere or the workplace such as such oppression, sexism, inequality, or sexual assault. In addition to reflecting on ethical practice, feminist ethics also deals with the approaches, themes, and theories that characterize traditional ethical theory and their shortcomings in the form of male bias, or misogyny. The goal of this course is to explore questions about feminism in ethical theory and practice such as What could a feminist ethics look like?, Does traditional ethics speak to the experience of all human beings regardless of gender or race?, or Is there such a thing as a distinctively feminine ethical experience or sensibility like ‘care’? In addition to these questions, this course will also address recent feminist analysis and criticism of the domination and oppression governing women’s current social reality, including sexual violence, the ethics and politics of family and work, and global justice.. Meets with / equivalent to PHIL 390.
WGS 302: Third Wave Ecofeminism
Section 0001 | Alison Bodkin | TuTh 9:30-10:45pm
This course explores the association between women and nature that exists in ecofeminist rhetorics--from the image of Mother Earth, to the critiques of our culture shown in the exploitation of women and of the earth itself. Religious, historical and scientific rhetorics of ecofeminism will be examined, along with alternative models of power and responsibility. Cross-listed with SCOM 302.
WGS 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 0001 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 3:30–4:45pm
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction. Cross-listed with SOCI 337.
WGS 348: Communication and Gender
Section 0001 | Sharon Mazzarella | TuTh 11:00am–12:15pm
Section 0002 | Staff | MW 2:30–3:45pm
Studies of theories and research regarding the influence of gender in various human communication contexts, both public and private. Emphasis on the critical analysis of existing theory and empirical research and the potential competent uses of communication for social change. Prerequisite: Any 100-level GCOM course. Cross-listed with SCOM 348.
WGS 355: American Women at War
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | M 4:40–6:35pm
This course invites students to engage a series of issues about the role of women in the US military. This course will examine the contributions & experiences of women who served during the American Revolution, the U.S. Civil War, WW I & II, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War(s). Also included in this course is an examination of how women in military service both past and present are an instrument for societal change in America specifically in promoting the cause of women’s rights. Cross-listed with MSCI 350.
WGS 368: Women’s Literature: Women and the Kunstlerroman
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
This course explores women’s literature through a focus on the Kunstlerroman or artist’s novel. By comparing these texts to the traditional Bildungsroman and drawing on relevant feminist literary criticism, we will identify the characteristics of “women’s art,” its suppression and expression, and its relationship to the unique experiences of women within patriarchal societies. We will also examine the politics of canon formation and consider the construction of women’s identities across issues of race/ethnicity, immigration, social class, sexuality, and place. Cross-listed with ENG 368.
WGS 383: Women and Politics in Comparative Perspective
Section 0101 | Kristin Wylie | MW 10:10am–12:40pm
First block course meeting January 11–March 1
A study of the causes and consequences of women’s political marginalization in the United States and abroad. The course examines socioeconomic and political dimensions of gender inequality, exploring how women have worked through social movements, electoral politics, and public policy initiatives to overcome obstacles to their political empowerment. Cross-listed with POSC 383.
WGS 420: Feminist Rhetorics
Section 0001 | Alison Bodkin | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
Surveys key women figures in classical and contemporary rhetorical traditions and challenges the strategies used to historicize this tradition from feminist perspectives. Explores diverse feminist rhetorical discourses informed by race, sexual orientation, ethnicity and social class. Cross-listed with SCOM 420 and WRTC 420.
WGS 485: Gender Issues in Science
Section 0001 | Louise Temple-Rosebrook & Rhonda Zingraff | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
An interdisciplinary course that looks at the scientific process, science practitioners and science students through the lens of gender analysis. Students read literature, lead discussions, perform experiments and analyze both data and processes to address the effects of educational systems on the preparation and careers of scientists, the influence of politics and culture on scientific inquiry, and the effects of critiques grounded in gender analyses on understanding the scientific process. Cross-listed with ISAT 485.
WGS 492: Internship in Women's and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Alison Bodkin and Christina Saindon | TBD
This course is open to Women's and Gender Studies minors who have completed nine hours in the minor or received permission from the instructor. The goal of this project is to work in a feminist collective to write daily blog posts for the blog “Shout Out! JMU: Your Source for Feminist Discourse.” Students taking the directed project will organize the blog, research and write blog posts, publicize the blog, and create dialogue by commenting on one another’s blog posts as a means of consciousness raising. Meets with / equivalent to SCOM 318.
HIST 321: European Women’s History
Section 0001 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 1:25–2:15pm
A survey of women’s history from the Elightenment to the Modern Era. Attention will focus on women in England, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain as well as the former Soviet Union. The course traces the birth of modern feminism in the European context and explores gender expectations, paying particular attention to women’s entrance into the public, political world.
HIST 449: Women and Fascism
Section 0001 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 10:10am–12:05pm
Second block course meeting March 14–May 5
This course offers a comparative understanding of fascism and women with a focus on Europe, including Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy and Francoist Spain. We will also discuss fascist movements and right-wing women in other European countries and in Latin America. The course will uncover the origins of fascism and the rise of the fascist party and the women’s branch.
HIST 466: The Family, 1400-1800
Section 0001 | Michael Galgano | TuTh 3:30–4:45pm
An examination of the bibliography, methods and substance of family history in Europe and America. Emphasis will be on sources, structure, patterns of change and continuity, and stages of family life to the Industrial Revolution.
SOCI 336: Race and Ethnicity
Section 0001 | Bethany Bryson | Online
This course examines the social construction of race and ethnicity around the world and how they influence social processes, institutions, change and ideology. The course will include discussions concerning the intersection of race and ethnicity with other aspects of social inequality such as class, gender, sexuality and nationality in contemporary society.
SPAN 455: Women in Hispanic Literatures
Section 0001 | Lucy Morris | TuTh 11:00am–12:15pm
Study of women in literature in the Hispanic world. Focus on women authors, female characters in literature or both. The course may include works from Spain or Latin America from any time period. Examination of feminist literary criticism, canon formation and other critical topics. Emphasis may vary according to the instructor. Instruction is in Spanish. Prerequisite: SPAN 335
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
ENG 222: Genre(s)
Topic: Gender & the Short Story
Section 0005 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm
This course will focus on the short story genre as it developed from the nineteenth century to the present. We will approach this diverse form of prose fiction from various angles, exploring literary elements, individual authorial styles, historical periods, and thematic comparisons across texts. We will explore 19th-century European continental, British, and American short stories, and then examine the modern and contemporary short story across an international spectrum. Such an exploration will give us the opportunity to understand the ways in which ideas about the short story have changed from era to era and from country to country. In addition to charting the development of the short story genre, we will also use close-readings to excavate how our reading experience is shaped and guided by the creative choices of authors. This is not a “how-to-write-a-short story” course, but the aim of the course is to help illuminate how good stories are works of deliberate craftsmanship. Finally, our reading of these texts will be focalized through the lens of gender and sexuality studies. Like the form of the short story itself, our concepts about gender and sexuality have evolved and continue to do so. We will explore how our texts reveal this evolution. We will also identify how our texts reveal the intersection of gender and sexuality with other identity classifications such as race, nationality, ethnicity, class, and age.
ENG 302: Special Topics in Literature and Language
Topic: Mothers, Mothering, and Motherhood in African American Women’s Writing
Section 0004 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm
This course explores motherhood, mothers, and mothering in the slave narrative and in the literary works of contemporary African American women writers. Using black feminist maternal theory (Audre Lorde, Patricia Hill-Collins, Dorothy Roberts, Alice Walker, bell hooks, and others) and the tools of literary analysis, we will explore how authors engage with motherhood as a product of biopower as well as a site for fashioning feminist identities. We will examine the social construction of motherhood and maternal identity across lines of class, culture, and race by drawing from women’s fiction, poetry, memoir, and blog writing. Texts will include: Jacobs, Incidents in the Life (1861); Morrison, Beloved (1987); Jones, Corregidora (1975); Kincaid, The Autobiography of My Mother (1996); Danticat, Breath, Eyes, Memory (1994); Sapphire, PUSH (1996); Ward, Salvage the Bones (2011); R. Walker, Baby Love (2007); A. Walker, Chicken Chronicles (2011).
ENG 410: Advanced Studies in Author
Topic: Harriet Beecher Stowe
Section 0003 | Laura Henigman | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Study of the works of one (or two) British, American, or Anglophone writer. May be repeated for credit when course content changes.
ENG 410: Advanced Studies in Author
Topic: Virginia Woolf, The Bloomsbury Group and Feminism (White)
Section 0004 | Siân White | TuTh 11:00am-12:15pm
In keeping with the rigor expected of a 400-level, this course looks closely and in depth at the work and life of Virginia Woolf, and is designed for students who are reading, thinking, and writing at an advanced level. Students can expect to read widely from among Woolf’s novels, essays and diaries, as well as engage with related literary and social criticism, emphasizing feminism, aesthetics, and her association with the Bloomsbury Group. In addition to engaged reading and discussion, students will be expected to read and present on critical articles, contribute to the development of a collective digital project on Virginia Woolf, and, as a final project, to write a 12-15 page research and literary analysis paper about some aspect of Woolf’s work.
WRTC 458: Scientific and Medical Communication
Section 0001 | Michael Klein | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
The theme of the course is representations of the (re)productive body in modern culture. We will examine the medicalization and commodification of pregnancy as a condition necessitating intervention by health professionals. We will also study ways in which technology has contributed to the way women and fetuses have been represented. Finally, we will consider the way the pregnancy has been politicized by participants in debates over the right to choose.
Fall 2015
Courses in the Curriculum:
WGS 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 1:25-2:15pm
Section 0002 | Melissa Aleman | M 2:30-5:00pm
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WGS 300: Special Topics: Africana Women and/in the Media
Section 0001 | Brillian Muhonja | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
The course will examine the positioning and representation of women of global Africa in the media in the USA. Images of Africana women that emerge and their accuracy in representing this demographic group will be analyzed. The course will investigate forces that have contributed to identified representations including time, the transitioning narrative of “the African American,” and politics. Through an exploration of the concept of media literacy, students will take on the roles of informed media consumers and critics. Further, the discussions will seek to discover how much the media contributes to the world view and commonly held stereotypes about women of African descent in the USA and globally. Issues relating to the women’s empowerment movement from an intersectional perspective will be an integral part of the class discourse as we navigate the world of movies, TV, magazine and other forms of advertising, electronic, digital, print and new media. Meets with/equivalent to AFST 400-0001.
WGS 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 0001 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction. Cross-listed with SOCI 337.
WGS 341: Gender and Justice
Section 0001 | Sue Spivey | Tuesdays 2:00-4:30pm
This course is an interdisciplinary examination of the causes, structure and consequences of gender oppression. Consistent with the social justice track of the major, notions of fairness, justice and equality with respect to gendered social, political and economic relations will be examined. Cross-listed with JUST 341.
WGS 350: The Philosophy of Feminism
Section 0001 | Pia Antolic-Piper | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
An intermediate-level examination of philosophical problems in feminist theory and feminist contributions to philosophy. Cross-listed with PHIL 350.
WGS 370: Queer Literature
Section 0001 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm with required films on Wednesdays 5:00-7:30pm
An exploration of texts and issues in literature written by and about gay and lesbian writers, including critical and theoretical issues as well as questions of canon. Text studied may include fiction, poetry, drama, essays and memoirs written primarily, but not exclusively, in the 20th century. Cross-listed with ENG 370.
WGS 420: Feminist Rhetoric
Section 0001 | Cathryn Molloy | MW 2:30-3:45pm
Surveys key women figures in classical and contemporary rhetorical traditions and challenges the strategies used to historicize this tradition from feminist perspectives. Explores diverse feminist rhetorical discourses informed by race, sexual orientation, ethnicity and social class. Cross-listed with WRTC 420 and SCOM 420.
WGS 495: Special Topics in Women’s Studies
Topic: Historical and Contemporary Lives of Indigenous Women and Tribal Communities
Section 0001 | Noorie Brantmeier | W 2:30-5:00pm
In this interdisciplinary course students will have the opportunity to examine and better understand the historical and contemporary lives of Indigenous women, children, and tribal communities in the United States. This course will also provide an overview of critical issues in Indigenous communities and we will discuss tribal communities’ strengths, challenges, and their continuing struggle to assert sovereignty in the 21st century. A unique and important part of this course will be a daylong trip to Washington, DC to learn and explore at the National Museum of the American Indian. Meets with/equivalent to AHRD 570.
ENG 369: Feminist Literary Theory
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | MW 2:30-3:45pm
An intensive study of a variety of feminist critical approaches and their applications to literature.
HIST 320: Women in U.S. History
Section 0001 | Emily Westkaemper | MWF 1:25-2:15pm
A survey of the role of women in the United States from the Colonial period to the present. Attention is given to contributions of the ordinary women, the Women’s Rights movements, the impact of women on reform and political movements, and the changing status of women in society.
PSYC 310: The Psychology of Women and Gender
Section 0001 | Kristen Davidson | MW 2:30-3:45pm
An examination of research and theory regarding the abilities and behaviors of women and the changing roles of women. Consideration is given to biological, developmental and societal determinants of sex and gender. Prerequisite: PSYC 101 and junior-level status.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
ENG 304: Feminist Perspectives on Literature and Religion
Section 0001 | AJ Morey | MWF 9:05-9:55am
American authors and their fiction about God, faith and religion in the American experience. Gender, along with race and class, will provide a focus through a variety of novels and short stories. Learning objectives:
- Educate students about how American writers have addressed the question of religious belief in post-World War II contexts.
- Examine how Christian belief is expressed, revised, confirmed or repudiated through story.
- Encourage a critical literature encounter informed by feminist awareness of gender, race and class in religious story telling.
- Practice critical reading and writing.
- Discover a literary space for thoughtful personal reflection on values and belief.
ENG 360: Introduction to Ethnic American Literature: Latino/a Voices
Section 0001 | Alison Fagan | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
In this course, we will compare and contrast the narratives of contemporary Latina/o writers who trace their heritage to Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Panama, Nicaragua, Guatemala, El Salvador, Peru, Argentina, and Colombia. We will explore the differences between and within these identities, asking whether the term “Latina/o” is an appropriate collective definition. In addition to considering how race, nation, and ethnicity shape our understandings of literary Latina/o identity, we will also discuss the intersecting forces of gender, sexuality, class, and language. Though the novels, stories, and poetry in this course incorporate some Spanish, no reading knowledge of Spanish is required. **Course will count for WGS substitute credit if final project focuses on gender.
MSCI 350: American Women at War
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | M 5:40-7:40pm
This course examines the contributions and experiences of American women who have served in times of war to include the American Revolution, the U.S. Civil War, World War I and II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf Wars and the present day conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Spring 2015
Courses in the Curriculum:
WMST 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Alison Bodkin | TuTh 11:00am-12:15pm
Section 0002 | Mary Thompson | MW 3:35-4:50pm
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WMST 300: Special Topics: Visions and Revisions: Women in Italian Society
Section 0001 | Elena Guolo | TuTh 11:00-12:15pm
This course is an introduction to Italian women from a socio-cultural point of view and tries to give the key for the reading of the Italian society and culture. It will analyze the role of women in Italy today and how their lives have changes in the last thirty years. The analysis will cover the definition of gender and how gender values are learned, shared and contested; the influence or impact of the Catholic church and culture on Italian women; family law; reproductive rights; the representation of women in the media, especially after Silvio Berlusconi’s media empire; immigrant women in Italy; the increasing violence against women. Meets with / equivalent to FL 447.
WMST 300: Special Topics: Women, Power and Religion in the United States
Section 0002 | Jennifer Connerley | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
This course will survey the ways in which women’s religious lives have shaped their access to and relationship with power in American society. Beginning with the early republic, the ways in which religion has expanded and limited women’s ability to govern their own experiences will be surveyed, paying special attention to the following historical and contemporary issues in five units:
- Speaking in Public
- Voting and Legal Rights
- Women’s Work
- Women’s Bodies
- Marriage and Partnership
Women have driven religious adherence in the United States from the earliest period. Examining the ways in which conversations about women’s lives, bodies, and access to power have been shaped by religion—and the ways women have deployed religion to change their lives and the lives of others—can enrich our understanding of women’s history and better enable us to understand the position of women in the United States in 2015. Contemporary conversations about Bibical submission and male headship, marriage equality, and figures like Bristol and Sarah Palin can illuminate the ways in which women navigate power using religion in the twenty-first century. In this course, historical documents, scholarly reflections, artwork, advertisements, film, and other materials will be used as sources to explore these relationships.
WMST 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 0001 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction. Cross-listed with SOCI 337.
WMST 348: Communication and Gender
Section 0001 | Alison Bodkin | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm
Study of theories and research regarding the influence of gender in various human communication contexts, both public and private. Emphasis on the critical analysis of existing theory and empirical research and the potential competent uses of communication for social change. Prerequisite: Any 100-level GCOM course. Cross-listed with SCOM 348.
WMST 368: Women’s Literature
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | MWF 12:20-1:10pm
A study of literature by women. Cross-listed with ENG 368.
WMST 400: Issues and Research in Women’s Studies
Creating the Campus: Women, Gender, Diversity, and Social Media
Section 0001 | Jennifer Connerley | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
This course will explore the ways in which cultural expectations and social mores on college campuses—including JMU—are constructed and disseminated. The class will examine social media and mass communication—including Twitter, Tumblr, YouTube, and Facebook, among others—as modes of conversation, inclusion, and marginalization. In addition, we will study campus spaces, classroom interactions, faculty, clothing, and other facets of college life. Theorizing the campus using the tools of Women’s and Gender Studies will not only deepen understanding of our own experiences, but also help us to shape a conversation where a diversity of voices are celebrated.
WMST 400: Issues and Research in Women’s Studies
The Many Lives of Jane Eyre: Adaptations in Literature and Film
Section 0002 | Heidi Pennington | MW 4:00-5:15pm
Since its publication in 1847, there have been a number of adaptations of Charlotte Brontë’s story of the independent-minded governess Jane Eyre. Jane famously “resists all the way” as she lives in and writes her way through a class-conscious, patriarchal world. In this course we’ll ask what it is about this story that makes it so consistently compelling to audiences in different times and places. Which elements reappear (or disappear) in each new imagining of “Jane?” And how do we, as readers, manage to identify a “Jane Eyre” story across different media? Beginning with Brontë’s classic novel, we will examine its reincarnation in several texts of literature and film, including Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier, Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys, Alena by Rachel Pastan, Rebecca by Hitchcock, and recent adaptations of Jane Eyre for the screen. We’ll examine these texts by paying close attention to narrative form, methods of adaptation, representations of gender, race, and class, and theories of audience response in order to inform our understanding of this story’s persistence and cultural significance. Cross-listed with ENG 414.
WMST 492: ShoutOut! JMU Weblog Internship
Sections 0001 & 0002 | Alison Bodkin | TBA
The mission of ShoutOut! JMU is to provide the JMU community with accurate and constructive information concerning events, legislation, cultural criticism, and resources for women’s rights and personal health on and off campus; to foster a safe space for members of JMU’s community for interactive, informed and constructive dialogue; as a collective, to advance the cause of women and other marginalized groups by means of these conversations; the goal of this blog is not to convert readers to feminism, but instead to raise consciousness of the diversity of perspectives toward understanding everyday inequities.
ANTH 370: Topics in the Anthropology of Gender
Section 0001 | Clare Terni | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
This course examines the many ways in which gender is constructed and negotiated in different historical and social contexts. Topics will vary with the instructor to include both cultural and biocultural perspectives.
HIST 320: Women in United States History
Section 0001 | Emily Westkaemper | MWF 1:25-2:15pm
A survey of the role of women in the United States from the Colonial period to the present. Attention is given to contributions of the ordinary women, the Women’s Rights movements, the impact of women on reform and political movements, and the changing status of women in society.
HIST 448: Gender in Latin America and the Iberian World*
Section 0201 | Kristen McCleary | MWF 10:10am-12:05pm
This course is designed to introduce students to critical issues, theories and methods of gender history through the study of the history of Latin America and the broader Iberian world. Students will study select peoples and cultures of Latin America and the Iberian Peninsula exploring how they lived and understood gender and sexuality during the pre-colonial, colonial and/or modern eras. *This course meets during the second eight week session (3/16/2015-5/7/2015).
SOCI 336: Race and Ethnicity
Section 0001 | Bethany Bryson | Online
This course examines the social construction of race and ethnicity around the world and how they influence social processes, institutions, change and ideology. The course will include discussions concerning the intersection of race and ethnicity with other aspects of social inequality such as class, gender, sexuality and nationality in contemporary society.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
ANTH 395: Special Topics in Anthropology
Sex and the Social: Cultural Anthropology of Reproduction
Section 0001 | Becca Howes-Mischel | MW 2:30-3:45pm
This course provides you with a critical and cross-cultural perspective on human reproduction. Examining how complicated private decisions become public concerns, we will discuss how reproduction is shaped by personal and cultural meanings—at the same time that it is embedded in local, national and transnational politics. In this course, students will explore a range of topics in the anthropology of reproduction including: cross-cultural perspectives on childbearing and childlessness; kinship, relatedness, and belonging; and the globalization of new reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization. Students also will discuss in particular why reproduction generally has been treated as a women’s concern, and how the role of men and fathers in reproduction might be reconsidered.
ENG 407: Advanced Study in American Literature
Section 0001 | Ann-Janine Morey | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
This course examines the “great American novel” and annual “great books” lists by looking at novels by women written between 1900 and 1950. We are reading women who are usually relegated to the margins, despite decades of feminist criticism otherwise. All, none, or some of the novels we read might be determined as “great.” What’s your definition of “great”? What’s your definition of “American”? Students are challenged to think carefully about their own literary standards in juxtaposition with established critical work. This course assumes that 400 level students have a working knowledge of literary theory and criticism, and they’ve read a number of male authored works in the canon for comparison. Students who took English 412 in 2012 should not enroll for this section.
ENG 410: Advanced Studies in Author: Virginia Woolf
Section 0003 | Sian White | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
Study of the works of one (or two) British, American, or Anglophone writer(s).
MSCI 350: American Women at War
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | M 4:40-6:35pm
This course invites students to engage a series of issues about the role of women in the US military. This course will examine the contributions & experiences of women who served during the American Revolution, the U.S. Civil War, WW I & II, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War(s). Also included in this course is an examination of how women in military service both past and present are an instrument for societal change in America specifically in promoting the cause of women’s rights.
PHIL 330: Moral Theory
Section 0001 | Pia Antolic-Piper | MW 2:30-3:45pm
An examination, at the intermediate level, of both classical and contemporary moral theories. Critical analysis of the normative and meta-ethical issues these theories raise. Prerequisite: PHIL 101 or PHIL 270, or permission of instructor.
Fall 2014
Courses in the Curriculum:
WMST 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Brillian Muhonja | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WMST 325: Gender and Violence
Section 0001 | Dawn Goode | W 2:30-5:00pm
This course explores the public nature of private violence, specifically violence committed against women in U.S. culture. Students will investigate the social, political and personal meaning of violence within a gendered context. Throughout the course students will analyze the ways in which demographic, social, cultural, economic and political factors teach us to think about women in violent terms as well as help perpetuate violence against women. Students will consider violence not only in its physical dimension, but also in its symbolic and structural manifestations. Students will also examine the ways in which ideas about race, ethnicity, class, and sexuality affect the degree and types of violence committee against women.
WMST/SOCI 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 0001 | Bethany Bryson | Online
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction.
WMST/JUST 341: Gender and Justice
Section 0001 | Sue Spivey | Tu 2:00-4:30pm
This course is an interdisciplinary examination of the causes, structure and consequences of gender oppression. Consistent with the social justice track of the major, notions of fairness, justice, and equality with respect to gendered social, political and economic relations will be examined.
WMST/ENG 368: Women’s Literature
Section 0001 | Ann-Janine Morey | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
A study of novels and short stories by women.
WMST/ISAT 485: Gender Issues in Science
Section 0001 | Louise Temple-Rosebrook | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
An interdisciplinary course that looks at the scientific process, science practitioners, and science students through the lens of gender analysis. Students read literature, lead discussions, perform experiments, and analyze both data and processes to address the effects of educational systems on the preparation and careers of scientists, the influence of politics and culture on scientific inquiry, and the effects of critiques grounded in gender analyses on understanding the scientific process.
WMST 495/ENG 412: Special Topics in Women’s Studies
Topic: Contemporary American Women’s Poetry
Section 0001 | Hilary Holladay | W 2:30-5:00pm
This course will provide in-depth study of the poetry of Sylvia Plath, Adrienne Rich, Louise Gluck, and Lucille Clifton. We will also read and analyze works by contemporary poets who live in the area, including JMU’s Laurie Kutchins, Rita Dove (U.Va.), Sarah Kennedy (Mary Baldwin College), Nikki Giovanni (Va. Tech), and Dolores Kendrick (Washington, D.C.). Class discussion will focus primarily on analysis of poems, but attention will also be paid to the lives of the poets and the sometimes autobiographical nature of their poetry. Course requirements will include several short essays, an oral report, a 12-page research paper, and a final exam. Students will also attend at least two events during JMU’s Furious Flower Poetry Conference, Sept. 24-27, 2014.
ENG 327: The Gothic
Topic: The Female Gothic Novel
Section 0001 | Katey Castellano | MW 2:30-3:45pm
This course examines how women writers use the Gothic novel to contest the aestheticization of sexual violence and question the nature of reality as it is posed in the masculine world of science. Our readings of primary texts will be supplemented by feminist and queer readings of the novels.
HIST 327: Technology in America
Section 0001 | Kevin Borg | MW 2:30-3:45pm
A historical survey of the complex and changing relationship between technology and American society from Native American canoes to the Internet. Attention is given to technology’s role in relations of power, in the home, on the farm, in the workplace and on the battlefield.
PSYC 310: Psychology of Women and Gender
Section 0001 | Arnie Kahn | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
An examination of research and theory regarding the abilities and behaviors of women and the changing roles of women. Consideration is given to biological, developmental and societal determinants of sex and gender.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
ENG 302: Special Topics in Literature and Language: Women, Nation, Violence
Section 0003 | Debali Mookerjea-Leonard | MWF 12:20-1:10pm
Study of a particular literary or linguistics topic. (May be repeated for credit when course content changes but not more than once, except with the approval of the department head.)
MSCI 350: American Women at War
Section 0001 | Amelia Underwood | M 5:00-7:30pm
This course examines the contributions and experiences of American women who have served in times of war to include the American Revolution, the U.S. Civil War, World War I and II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf Wars and the present day conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
POSC 371: Topics in Comparative Politics: Women and Politics in Comparative Perspective
Section 0001 | Kristin Wylie | MW 4:15-5:30pm
A study of the causes and consequences of women’s political marginalization in the United States and abroad. The course examines socioeconomic and political dimensions of gender inequality, exploring how women have worked through social movements, electoral politics, and public policy initiatives to overcome obstacles to their political empowerment.
Spring 2014
Courses in the Curriculum:
WMST 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WMST 300: Special Topics: Women, Power and Religion
Section 0001 | Jennifer Connerley | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm
This course will survey the ways in which women’s religious lives have shaped their access to and relationship with power in American society. Beginning with the early republic, the ways in which religion has expanded and limited women’s ability to govern their own experiences will be surveyed, paying special attention to the following historical and contemporary issues in five units:
- Speaking in Public
- Voting and Legal Rights
- Women’s Work
- Women’s Bodies
- Marriage and Partnership
Women have driven religious adherence in the United States from the earliest period. Examining the ways in which conversations about women’s lives, bodies, and access to power have been shaped by religion--and the ways women have deployed religion to change their lives and the lives of others--can enrich our understanding of women’s history and better enable us to understand the position of women in the United States in 2014. Contemporary conversations about Bibical submission and male headship, marriage equality, and figures like Bristol and Sarah Palin can illuminate the ways in which women navigate power using religion in the twenty-first century. In this course, historical documents, scholarly reflections, artwork, advertisements, film, and other materials will be used as sources to explore these relationships. Meets with / equivalent to REL 300.
WMST 300: Special Topics: Visions and Revisions: Women in Italian Society
Section 0001 | Elena Guolo | TuTh 11:00am-12:15pm
This course is an introduction to Italian women from a socio-cultural point of view and tries to give the key for the reading of the Italian society and culture. It will analyze the role of women in Italy today and how their lives have changes in the last thirty years. The analysis will cover the definition of gender and how gender values are learned, shared and contested; the influence or impact of the Catholic church and culture on Italian women; family law; reproductive rights; the representation of women in the media, especially after Silvio Berlusconi’s media empire; immigrant women in Italy; the increasing violence against women. Meets with / equivalent to FL 447.
WMST 348: Communication and Gender
Section 0001 | Christy Sims | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
Study of theories and research regarding the influence of gender in various human communication contexts, both public and private. Emphasis on the critical analysis of existing theory and empirical research and the potential competent uses of communication for social change. Prerequisite: Any 100-level GCOM course. Cross-listed with SCOM 348.
WMST 420: Feminist Rhetoric
Section 0001 | Jennifer Almjeld | MW 4:00-5:15pm
Surveys key women figures in classical and contemporary rhetorical traditions and challenges the strategies used to historicize this tradition from feminist perspectives. Explores diverse feminist rhetorical discourses informed by race, sexual orientation, ethnicity and social class. Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing. Cross-listed with SCOM 420 and WRTC 420.
WMST 492: ShoutOut! JMU Feminist Blog
Section 0001 | Janell Bauer & Alison Bodkin | TBA
The mission of ShoutOut! JMU is to provide the JMU with community with accurate and constructive information concerning events, legislation, cultural criticism, and resources for women’s rights and personal health on and off campus; to foster a safe space for members of JMU’s community for interactive, informed and constructive dialogue; as a collective, to advance the cause of women and other marginalized groups by means of these conversations; the goal of this blog is not to convert readers to feminism, but instead to raise consciousness of the diversity of perspectives toward understanding everyday inequities.
HIST 320: Women in United States History
Section 0001 | Emily Westkaemper | MWF 12:20-1:10pm
A survey of the role of women in the United States from the Colonial period to the present. Attention is given to contributions of the ordinary women, the Women’s Rights movements, the impact of women on reform and political movements, and the changing status of women in society.
HIST 449: Women and Facism
Section 0001 | Jessica Davidson | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
This course offers a comparative understanding of fascism and women with a focus on Europe, including Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy and Francoist Spain. We will also discuss fascist movements and right-wing women in other European countries and in Latin America. The course will uncover the origins of fascism and the rise of the fascist party and the women’s branch.Prerequisite: HIST 395 or permission of instructor.
HIST 466: The Family, 1700-1815
Section 0001 | Michael Galgano | TuTh 5:00-6:15pm
An examination of the bibliography, methods and substance of family history in Europe and America. Emphasis will be on sources, structure, patterns of change and continuity and stages of family life to the Industrial Revolution. Prerequisite: HIST 395 or permission of instructor.
PSYC 310: Psychology of Women and Gender
Section 0001 | Arnie Kahn | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
An examination of research and theory regarding the abilities and behaviors of women and the changing roles of women. Consideration is given to biological, developmental and societal determinants of sex and gender. Prerequisite: GPSYC 101 and junior status.
SOCI 336: Race and Ethnicity
Section 0001 | David Trouille | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
This course examines the social construction of race and ethnicity around the world and how they influence social processes, institutions, change and ideology. The course will include discussions concerning the intersection of race and ethnicity with other aspects of social inequality such as class, gender, sexuality and nationality in contemporary society.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
ENG 410: Advanced Studies in Author: Virginia Woolf
Section 0002 | Sian White | MW 2:30-3:45pm
Study of the works of English author Virginia Woolf.
Fall 2013
Courses in the Curriculum:
WMST 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 11:15am-12:05pm
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WMST 300: Special Topics: Women’s Health Issues
Section 0001 | Cannie Campbell | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
An exploration of issues related to the mental, physical, spiritual, social and political aspects of women’s health with a feminist prospective. The practical orientation of this course emphasizes information and resources to help each woman optimize her own health and well-being, while expanding understanding of the broader issues that shape the lives and health of all women and how we can influence these issues.
WMST 300: Special Topics: Africana Women in the Media
Section 0002 | Brillian Muhonja | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
The course will examine the positioning and representation of women of global Africa in the media in the USA. Images of Africana women that emerge and their accuracy in representing this demographic group will be analyzed. The course will investigate forces that have contributed to identified representations including time, the transitioning narrative of “the African American,” and politics. Through an exploration of the concept of media literacy, students will take on the roles of informed media consumers and critics. Further, the discussions will seek to discover how much the media contributes to the world view and commonly held stereotypes about women of African descent in the USA and globally. Issues relating to the women’s empowerment movement from an intersectional perspective will be an integral part of the class discourse as we navigate the world of movies, TV, magazine and other forms of advertising, electronic, digital, print and new media. Meets with/equivalent to AFST 400-0001.
WMST 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 0001 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
Section 0002 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction. Cross-listed with SOCI 337.
WMST 341: Gender and Justice
Section 0001 | Sue Spivey | Tu 2:30-5:00pm
This course is an interdisciplinary examination of the causes, structure and consequences of gender oppression. Consistent with the social justice track of the major, notions of fairness, justice, and equality with respect to gendered social, political and economic relations will be examined. Cross-listed with JUST 341.
WMST 368: Women’s Literature
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
A study of novels and short stories by women. Cross-listed with ENG 368.
WMST 370: Queer Literature
Section 0001 | Dawn Goode | MW 2:30-3:45pm, Tu 6:30-9:00pm
An exploration of texts and issues in literature written by and about gay and lesbian writers, including critical and theoretical issues as well as questions of canon. Text studied may include fiction, poetry, drama, essays and memoirs written primarily, but not exclusively, in the 20th century. Cross-listed with ENG 370.
WMST 400: Issues and Research in Women’s and Gender Studies - Third Wave Feminism
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson |TuTh 11:00am-12:15pm
The capstone seminar for the Women’s and Gender Studies minor. Focuses on readings in feminist philosophy, history and literature. Students will engage in research in critical issues affecting women’s lives.
WMST 492: Internship in Women’s and Gender Studies - Sister Speak
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | Mondays 6:30-8:00pm
The goal of Sister Speak is to be amalgam of information that educates about issues related to feminism. To this end, this publication includes works that focus on women and/or gender and that question or challenge oppressive gender roles.
ENG 327: The Gothic
Section 0001 | Katey Castellano | MW 2:30-3:45pm
A study of the origins, influence and transformations of Gothic fiction from the 18th century to the present.
HIST 321: European Women’s History
Section 0001 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 1:25-2:15pm
A survey of women’s history from the Enlightenment to the Modern Era. Attention will focus on women in England, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain as well as the former Soviet Union. The course traces the birth of modern feminism in the European context and explores gender expectations, paying particular attention to women’s entrance into the public, political world.
HIST 448: Gender in Colonial Latin America and the Iberian World
Section 0001 | William Van Norman | MWF 11:15am-12:05pm
This course is designed to introduce students to critical issues, theories and methods of gender history through the study of the history of Latin America and the broader Iberian world. Students will study select peoples and cultures of Latin America and the Iberian Peninsula exploring how they lived and understood gender and sexuality during the pre-colonial, colonial and/or modern eras.
PSYC 310: Psychology of Women and Gender
Section 0001 | Arnie Kahn | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
An examination of research and theory regarding the abilities and behaviors of women and the changing roles of women. Consideration is given to biological, developmental and societal determinants of sex and gender.
REL 306: Women and Gender in Islam
Section 0001 | Danielle Widmann Abraham |TuTh 11:00am-12:15pm
This course investigates how particular gender roles, identities, and relationships become signified as Islamic, and the ways in which Muslim women continually re-negotiate the boundaries of gender in living an authentic religious life. Topics will include Qur’anic revelations, the formation of Islamic jurisprudence, sexual ethics, representations of Muslim women in colonial discourse, as well as the role of women in ritual practice and feminist movements.
Courses that will Receive Substitute Credit:
ARTH 479/579: Topics in Twentieth Century Art - Women in Early Film
Section 0001 | Maureen Shanahan | W 4:40-7:10pm
This course investigates women’s roles as makers of film and as screen stars from the silent era through the 1940s. Women filmmakers in France, the U.S., and Canada such as Alice Guy Blaché (1873-1968), Germaine Dulac (1882-1942), Dorothy Arzner (1897-1979), and Nell Shipman (1892-1970), were innovators in narrative, technique and genre. Actresses in early film, such as Musidora in the French classic Les Vampires (Feuillade, France 1915) and Alla Nazimova in Salomé (Bryant, U.S. 1920), enact the mobility and sexual liberty identified with the “new woman” of 1920s. Female characters in the silent era possess an agency and sexual knowledge that were later eclipsed by more regressive ideologies of femininity, especially in Hollywood after the enactment of the Hays Codes in 1930. Actresses Evelyn Preer (1896-1932), Anna May Wong (1905-61), Dolores del Rio (1905-83), Josephine Baker (1906-75), Irie Takako (1911-95) and others constructed successful careers in France, Japan, Mexico, the U.S. and the U.K. despite and through alienating Orientalist and exoticizing discourses, reductive racial and gender typologies, and oppressive legal codes (segregation, the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882). The course will thus explore the way that female identities and subjectivities are constructed in film and through film-making.
ENG 410: Advance Studies in Author
Section 0002 | Katey Castellano | MW 5:00-6:15pm
Study of the works of Mary Shelley and her Circle. May be repeated for credit when course content changes.
SPAN 455: Women in Hispanic Literatures
Section 0001 | Lucy Morris | TuTh 11:00am-12:15pm
Study of women in literature in the Hispanic world. Focus on women authors, female characters in literature or both. The course may include works from Spain or Latin America from any time period. Examination of feminist literary criticism, canon formation and other critical topics. Emphasis may vary according to the instructor. Instruction is in Spanish.
Spring 2013
Courses in the Curriculum:
WMST 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | MWF 12:20-1:10pm
Section 0002 | Tamara Winograd | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WMST 300: Special Topics: Girlhood, Identity, & Pop Culture
Section 0001 | Sharon Mazzarella | M 2:30-5:00pm
This course will explore how the mass media and popular culture contribute to cultural constructions of girlhood. Employing the critical lens of feminist and communication theories, students examine cultural depictions/representations of girls as well as how girls actively produce and negotiate media and popular culture themselves. Cross-listed with SCOM 313.
WMST 300: Special Topics: Confronting Delilah and Eve: Critical African Feminisms and African Folklore
Section 0002 | Brillian Muhonja | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
A simplistic reading of the realities of African women over history often leads to their portrayal as victims of circumstances and their male counterparts. Often, this erroneous interpretation, places responsibility right at the feet of social and domestic structures and practices in indigenous pre-colonial African societies. Even today, the tendency still is to apply Western world standards and paradigms of analysis in the definition and study of women and gender in other cultures. Recognizing that surviving folklore provides insight into the human cultural history of a society, this seminar course undertakes an examination of the social, economic and cultural hi(stories) of East African women by applying a critical African Feminisms reading to folktales, riddles, proverbs, songs and other forms of oral folk culture. Course participants will engage new theoretical frameworks for examining the spaces occupied by African women in different communities.
WMST/SCOM 348: Communication and Gender
Section 0001 | Melissa Alemán | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
Study of theories and research regarding the influence of gender in various human communication contexts, both public and private. Emphasis on the critical analysis of existing theory and empirical research and the potential competent uses of communication for social change. Prerequisite: Any 100-level GCOM course.
WMST/PHIL 350: The Philosophy of Feminism
Section 0001 | Erin Tarver | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
This course will examine the development of the key theoretical concepts that underpin feminist action and thought—including the social construction of gender, the subordination of women, the meaning of oppression, the sex/gender distinction (and criticisms of it), the relationship between gender, sexuality, race and class, feminist epistemology, and the ethics of feminist activism. Throughout, our interest will be in investigating both how feminism might make us better philosophers, and how philosophy might make us better feminists.
WMST/ENG 370: Queer Literature
Section 0001 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm, W 6:30-9:00pm
An exploration of texts and issues in literature written by and about gay and lesbian writers, including critical and theoretical issues as well as questions of canon. Text studied may include fiction, poetry, drama, essays and memoirs written primarily, but not exclusively, in the 20th century.
WMST 420: Feminist Rhetoric
Section 0001 | Alison Bodkin | TuTh 2:00-3:15pm
Surveys key women figures in classical and contemporary rhetorical traditions and challenges the strategies used to historicize this tradition from feminist perspectives. Explores diverse feminist rhetorical discourses informed by race, sexual orientation, ethnicity and social class.
ENG 368: Women’s Literature
Section 0001 | Ann-Janine Morey | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
A study of literature by women.
ENG 369: Feminist Literary Theory
Section 0001 | Mary Thompson | MWF 1:25-2:15pm
An intensive study of a variety of feminist critical approaches and their applications to literature. Formerly ENG 467.
PSYC 310: Psychology of Women and Gender
Section 0001 | Arnie Kahn | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
An examination of research and theory regarding the abilities and behaviors of women and the changing roles of women. Consideration is given to biological, developmental and societal determinants of sex and gender.
SOCI 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 0001 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 9:30-10:45am
Section 0002 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 11:00-12:15pm
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction.
Courses that Will Receive Substitute Credit:
HIST 327: Technology in America
Section 0001 | Kevin Borg | TuTh 3:30-4:45pm
An historical survey of the complex and changing relationship between technology and American Society from Native American canoes to the Internet. Attention is given to technology’s role in relations of power, in the home, on the farm, in the workplace, and on the battlefield.
HIST 439: History of Sexuality in America
Section 0001 | Robert Hill | TuTh 12:30-1:45pm
This course examines the various meanings that masculinity, femininity, desire, the body, and intimate practices have taken on in different historical contexts and time periods. Overall, you will develop a deeper historical and theoretical understanding of the sexual categories and norms that have shaped the lives of individuals from different races, ethnicities, and social classes in the past and the near present.
NSG 490: Issues of Family Violence
Section 0001 | Sandra Annan | F 10:10-11:00am
This course introduces students to the roots of family violence, including the political, cultural, social, and economic structures that perpetuate violence, and explores approaches to changing those structures in order to reduce or end violence. Students will think critically about the local and global impact of family violence, how it intersects with other forms of oppression, and achieve an understanding of these issues that will be useful intellectually and personally.
SCOM 330: Special Topics in Interpersonal Communication: Social Identities and Intergroup Dialog
Section 0001 | Janell Bauer | W 2:30-5:00pm
What are the differences that make a difference in our lives? This limited-enrollment special topics course explores the communication of social identity, specifically gender, and its impact on individuals and groups. Drawing on contemporary writings and media on gender, students in this course will develop a deeper understanding of self and others in relation to gender. Students will leave the class better prepared to advance equitable practices in their personal lives, workplaces, and communities. Active participation in the dialogue process and discussion of personal experiences is a large component of this course. Department consent is required.
Fall 2012
Courses in the Curriculum:
WMST 200: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
Section 1 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 10:10-11:00
Section 2 | Tamara Winograd | TuTh 11:00-12:15
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WMST 300: Women in Blues and Jazz
Section 1 | Tamara Winograd | TuTh 9:30-10:45
This course provides an interdisciplinary introduction to research and scholarship on women in blues and jazz. Using recorded performances and films as primary source material, this course will introduce students to female musicians in genres that have been gendered as male in traditional music histories. The course will focus on feminist scholarship of the past three decades that has addressed the absence of women from the blues and jazz canon. In addition, we will examine how scholars from multiple disciplines apply feminist analysis to the study of lyrics, the writing of biography, and the writing of music history.
WMST 300: Motherhood in the 21st Century: Diminished, Deferred and Denied
Section 2 | Besi Muhonja | TuTh 2:00-3:15
This seminar class will engage and confront issues related to the transitioning nature of the reality of motherhood and mothering in contemporary times specifically in relation to signifiers of contemporary cultures in the 21st century as distinct from cultures of past decades as well as indigenous cultures: diminishing value, role, reach and influence of motherhood; delayed and deferred motherhood; and spaces of denied motherhood arising from affects imposed both by self and the society, and underline from an ethno-cultural perspective questions of strength, empowerment, and agency in motherhood and mothering.
WMST/JUST 341: Gender and Justice
Section 1 | Sue Spivey | W 2:30-5:00
This course is an interdisciplinary examination of the causes, structure and consequences of gender oppression. Consistent with the social justice track of the major, notions of fairness, justice and equality with respect to gendered social, political and economic relations will be examined.
WMST/ENG 368: Women’s Literature
Section 1 | Mary Thompson | MWF 12:20-1:10
A study of literature by women.
WMST 492: Sister Speak Workshop
1-3 credits | Mary Thompson | TBA
This one-credit internship is open to Women’s Studies minors who have completed at least nine credit hours in the minor (or have received permission from the instructor). This internship will operate as a workshop, for which students will meet once every two weeks as a group to examine feminist writings and films, write and share informal responses, and contribute to the construction of a feminist zine. Modeled on the principles of feminist consciousness raising, this workshop seeks to foster personal growth, social action, as well as social transformation.
WMST 492: ShoutOut! JMU Weblog Internship
1-3 credits | Melissa Aleman | TBA
The mission of ShoutOut! JMU is to provide the JMU community with accurate and constructive information concerning events, legislation, cultural criticism, and resources for women’s rights and personal health on and off campus; to foster a safe space for members of JMU’s community for interactive, informed and constructive dialogue; as a collective, to advance the cause of women and other marginalized groups by means of these conversations; the goal of this blog is not to convert readers to feminism, but instead to raise consciousness of the diversity of perspectives toward understanding everyday inequities.
HIST 320: Women in US History
Section 1 | Emily Westkaemper | MWF 1:25-2:15
A survey of the role of women in the United States from the Colonial period to the present. Attention is given to contributions of the ordinary women, the Women's Rights movements, the impact of women on reform and political movements, and the changing status of women in society.
HIST 449: Women and Fascism
Section 1 | Jessica Davidson | MW 2:00-3:15
This course offers a comparative understanding of fascism and women with a focus on Europe, including Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy and Francoist Spain. We will also discuss fascist movements and right-wing women in other European countries and in Latin America. The course will uncover the origins of fascism and the rise of the fascist party and the women's branch.
PSYC 310: Psychology of Women
Section 1 | Arnie Kahn | TuTh 3:30-4:45
An examination of research and theory regarding the abilities and behaviors of women and the changing roles of women. Consideration is given to biological, developmental and societal determinants of sex and gender.
Courses that Will Receive Substitute Credit:
ENG 410: Toni Morrison
Section 3 | Joanne Gabbin | TuTh 11:00-12:15
Study of the works of American author Toni Morrison.
ENG 466: Magical Realism and Women Writers
Section 1 | Mary Thompson | MWF 1:25-2:15
Advanced study of women's literary achievements in several cultural and historical contexts. May be focused by theme. May be repeated as course content varies.
SCOM 347: Popular Culture
Section 1 | Sharon Mazzarella | TuTh 12:30-1:45
Study of the rhetorical dimension of communication practices and texts found in popular culture. Emphasis on issues of diversity as they are manifested in the communication practices found in popular culture. Emphasis on strategic communication choices in a diverse, multicultural world. Emphasis on critical thinking, self-reflexivity and communication analysis.
SOCI 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 1 | Bethany Bryson | Online
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction.
Spring 2012
Courses in the Curriculum:
WMST 200: Introduction to Women’s Studies
Section 1 | Mary Thompson | TuTh 12:30-1:45
Section 2 | Tamara Winograd | MWF 9:05-9:55
Section 3 | Tamara Winograd | MWF 10:10-11:00
Cross disciplinary introduction to theories and scholarship in Women’s and Gender Studies. Examines the social construction of gender, how gender affects access to opportunity, and the experiences and contributions of women. Provides a foundation for subsequent work in the Women’s and Gender Studies minor.
WMST 300: Women’s Health Issues
Section 1 | Caroline Campbell | MWF 9:05-9:55
An exploration of issues related to the mental, physical, spiritual, social and political aspects of women’s health with a feminist perspective. The practical orientation of this course emphasizes information and resources to help each women optimize her own health and well-being, while expanding understanding of the broader issues that shape the lives and health of all women and how we can influence these issues.
WMST 325: Gender and Violence
Section 1 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 2:00-3:15
This course explores the public nature of private violence, specifically violence committed against women in U.S. culture. We will investigate the social, political and personal meaning of violence within a gendered context. Throughout the course we will analyze the ways in which demographic, social, cultural, economic and political factors teach us to think about women in violent terms as well as help perpetuate violence against women. We will consider violence not only in its physical dimension, but also in its symbolic and structural manifestations. We will also examine the ways in which ideas about race, ethnicity, class, and sexuality affect the degree and types of violence committed against women.
WMST/ENG 370: Queer Literature
Section 1 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 5:00-6:15
An exploration of texts and issues in literature written by and about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer writers, including critical and theoretical issues as well as questions of canon. Text studied may include fiction, poetry, drama, essays and memoirs written primarily, but not exclusively, in the 20th century.
WMST/SCOM 348: Communication and Gender
Section 1 | Janell Bauer | MW 2:30-3:45
Study of theories and research regarding the influence of gender in various human communication contexts, both public and private. Emphasis on the critical analysis of existing theory and empirical research and the potential competent uses of communication for social change.
WMST 492: ShoutOut! JMU Weblog Internship
1-3 credits | Melissa Aleman | TBA
The mission of ShoutOut! JMU is to provide the JMU community with accurate and constructive information concerning events, legislation, cultural criticism, and resources for women’s rights and personal health on and off campus; to foster a safe space for members of JMU’s community for interactive, informed and constructive dialogue; as a collective, to advance the cause of women and other marginalized groups by means of these conversations; the goal of this blog is not to convert readers to feminism, but instead to raise consciousness of the diversity of perspectives toward understanding everyday inequities.
WMST 492: Sister Speak Workshop
1-3 credits | Mary Thompson | TBA
This one-credit internship is open to Women’s Studies minors who have completed at least nine credit hours in the minor (or have received permission from the instructor). This internship will operate as a workshop, for which students will meet once every two weeks as a group to examine feminist writings and films, write and share informal responses, and contribute to the construction of a feminist zine. Modeled on the principles of feminist consciousness raising, this workshop seeks to foster personal growth, social action, as well as social transformation.
WMST 492 Research Internship: Best Practices for Promoting Gender Equity in Academic Organizations
3 credits | Maureen Shanahan & Melissa Aleman | TBA
Interns will investigate the scholarly and applied higher education literature to identify those policies and organizational practices considered "best practices" toward promoting positive gender climates and gender equity in academic organizations. Specifically, interns will synthesize the research on the promotion of organizational policies and practices that are supportive of family leave, stop-the-clock policies, child- and eldercare, partner benefits, and salary equity, as well as those practices that discourage bullying and gender-based harassment in academic organizations. Interns will also explore how JMU compares to peer institutions with regard to best practices supported in the research literature.
PSYC 310: Psychology of Women and Gender
Section 1 | Arnie Kahn | TuTh 12:30-1:45
An examination of research and theory regarding the abilities and behaviors of women and the changing roles of women. Consideration is given to biological, developmental and societal determinants of sex and gender.
SOCI 337: Sociology of Gender
Section 1 | Matt Ezzell | TuTh 9:30-10:45
Examination of theories of sex role development, the roles of men and women in society and gender as a social construction.
HIST 320: Women in US History
Section 1 | Emily Westkaemper | MWF 10:10-11:00
A survey of the role of women in the United States from the Colonial period to the present. Attention is given to contributions of the ordinary women, the Women's Rights movements, the impact of women on reform and political movements, and the changing status of women in society.
HIST 321: European Women’s History
Section 1 | Jessica Davidson | MWF 2:30-3:20
A survey of European women's history from the Enlightenment to the Modern Era. Attention will focus on women in England, France, Germany, Italy and Spain as well as the former Soviet Union. The course traces the birth of modern feminism in the European context and explores gender expectations, paying particular attention to women's entrance into the public, political world.
Courses That Will Receive Substitute Credit:
ENG 407/HIST 439: Marriage, Sexuality and Reform in Early America
Section 1 | Laura Henigman | TuTh 2:00-3:15
The nineteenth century perfectionist project – the ambition to establish an ideal society – often involved rethinking ideas about marriage and sexuality. Traditional patriarchal structures, crucial to the formation of the state and the family, came under various challenges in the early republic, and for some reforms, re-imagining public identities meant restructuring “private” relationships as well. In this course we will trace that conversation from the colonial period through the nineteenth century, through examining a variety of historical documents – letters, reformist tracts, legal documents, journalism, personal narratives, and fiction. An important focus of the course will be the student’s individual research project.
ENG 410: Virginia Woolf
Section 1 | Sian White | MW 2:30-3:45
Study of the works of English author Virginia Woolf.
GENG 221: Gender and Literature
Section 1 | Dawn Goode | TuTh 11:00 –12:15
Will count as WMST credit only if student has six or fewer credit hours in English.
HIST 489: History of the Body from Classical Times
Section 1 | Chris Davis | MW 2:00-3:15
This course examines the body as a historical artifact whose physical appearance and social and cultural meanings changed over time. Focusing on Europe from classical Greece and Rome to the present day, we will study the effects on the body of transformative developments in European history, like the rise of Christianity, the decline of the divine right of kings, the acquisition of overseas colonies in Africa and Asia, and the rise and fall of communist and fascist states. Close attention will be paid to issues of sexuality, gender, class and race.
NSG 490: Issues in Family Violence
Section 1 | Sandra Annan | Th 9:30-10:20
This course introduces students to the roots of family violence, including the political, cultural, social, and economic structures that perpetuate violence, and explores approaches to changing those structures in order to reduce or end violence. Students will think critically about the local and global impact of family violence, how it intersects with other forms of oppression, and achieve an understanding of these issues that will be useful intellectually and personally.
