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 1990's 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 over "what is still queer in queer theory?" as critics engage ongoing questions about neoliberalism, homonormativity, and politics, in the 21st century.