WS 505 (03) - Survey in Women's Studies

Survey in Women's Studies

Durham Liberal Arts::Women's Studies
Credits: 4.0
Class Size: 24 
Term:  Spring 2025 - Full Term (01/21/2025 - 05/05/2025)
CRN:  54565
Grade Mode:  Letter Grading
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: Women and Madness
Registration Approval Required. Contact Instructor or Academic Department for permission then register through Webcat.
Repeat Rule: May be repeated for a maximum of 8 credits.
Attributes:  Inquiry (Discovery), Historical Perspectives(Disc)
Instructors:  Joelle Ryan

Times & Locations

Start Date End Date Days Time Location
1/21/2025 5/5/2025 MW 3:40pm - 5:00pm HS G34

Additional Course Details:

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 the psychiatric survivor movement 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, in-class discussions, the creation of a class-wide zine and a final research essay.

WGS 505.03 Women and Madness