CTSJ 230 Fundamentals of Queer Theory

This class is designed to introduce the classical texts of Anglo-American queer theory as well as explore recent trends in the field. While situating queer theory's 1990s academic advent in its historical context of identity politics the emergence of the AIDS pandemic and the U.S. "culture wars" the course will begin by reviewing crucial antecedents in gay and lesbian studies psychoanalysis and the interventions of Michel Foucault. Readings will include works by Judith Butler Eve Sedgwick Leo Bersani Lee Edelman and Teresa de Lauretis. Additional readings will trace recent debates about "what is still queer in queer theory?" as critics engage ongoing questions about neoliberalism homonormativity and politics in the 21st century. Emphasis topic: Feminist and Queer Studies.