ENG 223 Difference, Power, and Discrimination in Film

The course will investigate cinematic representations of femininity and masculinity and analyze how film, as a commercial art form geared toward mass consumption, can reinforce or challenge socially constructed notions of gender identity. The course will also explore film representations of gender’s intersections with other forms of identities--primarily sexuality, race, class, and ability. Using both “classical” Hollywood and contemporary films, this course will introduce students to the central tenets of relevant film and critical theory, and illustrate the ways in which film representations can perpetuate and subvert aspects of dominant ideologies.

Prerequisite

Prerequisite: WR 121 English Composition with a grade of C or better.

Notes

Lower Division Transfer (LDT) Course

General Education Requirements

AS Difference, Power, Discrimination

Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Explain how difference is socially constructed. Using historical and contemporary examples, describe how perceived differences, combined with unequal distribution of power across economic, social, and political institutions, result in discrimination. Analyze ways in which the interactions of social categories, such as race, ethnicity, social class, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, and age, are related to difference, power, and discrimination in the United States.