This course will explore representations of gender and race in American cinema and popular culture, ranging from Classical Hollywood, social critical cinema of the 1950s/1960s to contemporary films that feature representations of the body in various contexts. Weekly readings of contemporary gender and race theories will guide us in identifying the various stereotypes and subversive aspects depicted in cinema and popular culture. Topics include various representations of masculinity and the crisis of white masculinity; the black woman’s gaze; objectification and lighting of white women; race/ethnicity and hypersexuality; white privilege; sexual orientation; and transgender performance. This course is reading and writing intensive and examples from films will be discussed and closely analyzed in class. Films discussed include Mahogany; Deliverance; Jackie Brown; Pocahontas; Twilight; The Shining; Moonlight; The Silence of the Lambs; Get Out. Please note that this course requires heavy use of myCourses (mC)/Canvas.

This course satisfies the Race, Gender & Postcolonial Studies requirement for English majors following degree requirements activated in Fall 2023. 

This course satisfies the Race & Racial Theories requirement for English Literature, English:TBD, English Teaching, English/Journalism, English/Law 3+3  majors. 

This course may be taken for CAPSTONE credit by English majors following degree requirements in place prior to Fall 2023. Pick up a Capstone Decalration Form in the main ENGL office (HS 230F) if interested in this option.