Course Details

Course offered Autumn 2006

H A&S 251 A: History of Western Civilization Gender Concepts

H A&S 251 A: History of Western Civilization Gender Concepts

SLN 13767 (View UW registration info »)

Clare Bright (Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies)
Office: B-110 Padelford, Box 354345
Phone: (206) 543-6900
Email: cbright@uw.edu

Credits: 5
Limit: 35 students

Honors Credit Type

***COURSE FULL***
COURSE DESCRIPTION
An exploration and critique of the dominant themes and paradigms which have shaped Western European thought, with special focus on concepts of “woman” and “man.” Theories of knowledge and reality will also be covered. Feminist perspectives will be studied along with more traditional viewpoints.

COURSE OBJECTIVES
To provide an overview of the dominant philosophical paradigms in western thought
To assess such paradigms in terms of critical responses made to them, especially from
feminist perspectives
To become familiar with the core concepts of major thinkers regarding “woman” and “man,”
as well as the social and metaphysical contexts for these definitions
To develop the student’s ability to analyze and formulate theory
To facilitate the thoughtful verbal and written expression of knowledge gained over the quarter

REQUIRED READINGS
Riane Eisler, The Chalice and the Blade
Plato, The Republic
The Bible (A version of your choice)
Woman in Western Thought (Reading Packet #2)
Reading Packet #1
(Both Reading Packets available at Professional Copy, 42nd & the Ave.)

COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Class Participation (30%): Students are expected to be at all class sessions and to be prepared for class discussioin. This means studying the readings for the unit scheduled and coming to class with ideas to share. *Acceptable participation includes both thoughtful comments and active, respectful listening, as well as an appropriate balance between them.* One absence is permitted without affecting your participation grade.

Two Take-home essay assignments (20%): Dates TBA

Group Project (15%): Guidelines to be annouced shortly

Final Exam (15%): An in-class comprehensive exam given ONLY on December 14th, 4:30 pm.