WS 505 (1SY) - Survey in Women's Studies

SurvWomStdy/Women and Madness

Credits: 4.0
Term: Spring 2022 - Full Term (01/25/2022 - 05/09/2022)
Grade Mode: Letter Grading
Class Size:   25  
CRN: 57034
In-depth study of topics not covered in regular course offerings. The course explores the breadth and depth of Women's Studies from a historical perspective. In order to understand Women's Studies currently, students look at the historical foundations that contribute social, political, and economic influences on the topics. Barring duplication of topic, may be repeated for credit.
Section Comments: Topic: Women and Madness
Department Approval Required. Contact Academic Department for permission then register through Webcat.
Repeat Rule: May be repeated for a maximum of 8 credits.
Attributes: Scheduled meeting time, Online (no campus visits), Inquiry (Discovery), Historical Perspectives(Disc), EUNH
Instructors: STAFF

Times & Locations

Start Date End Date Days Time Location
1/25/2022 5/9/2022 MW 2:10pm - 3:30pm ONLINE
Additional Course Details: 

WS 505: Women and Madness: Gender and Mental Illness in Film and Literature

This class will be an introduction to the issues faced by women with mental and psychiatric disabilities. While extremely common, mental illness continues to be incredibly stigmatized in American culture. Women face particular scorn and live in the shadow of the “hysterical woman” trope. In order to understand the complex intersection between gender and mental illness, we will explore narratives by and about women with diverse psychiatric diagnoses. These narratives will include novels, autobiographies and films. In addition to examining systemic ableism, mentalism and sanism, we will explore the mad pride and psychiatric survivors movements and other strategies women have used to fight for a more inclusive and just world. Attention will be paid to diverse live experiences of mentally ill women based on categories such as race and class. Work for the course will include readings, film screenings, discussion board posts, creation of a class-wide zine and a final research essay.