History of Feminist Theories

Course goals

After completion of this course, the student has learned to:
A) critically navigate the broad and diverse field of feminist theories, among which materialist and Marxist feminisms, intersectionality and Black feminism, postcolonial/decolonial feminisms, and lesbian, queer, and trans feminisms;
B) situate feminist theories and concepts in their historical-political context;
C) closely engage with theoretical texts;
D) present the gained knowledge in oral and written form.  

Content

This course is for students in the MA Gender Studies; students from other MA programmes should check with the course coordinator before enrolling. Only this way participation can be granted. The entrance requirements for Exchange Students will be checked by International Office and the Programme coordinator. You do not have to contact the Programme coordinator by yourself.

This course familiarises students with the heterogeneous canon of feminist theory and the equally broad and diverse interdisciplinary field of Gender Studies. Each week focuses on a particular current of feminist theory - such as feminist materialisms, Black feminism and intersectionality, or queer and trans feminisms - by addressing both classic texts and contemporary issues and debates. Feminism is not regarded as a fixed or singular signifier, but as a field composed of diverse and even conflicting positions. Additionally, feminism (and the field of Gender Studies) is approached in relation to other theoretical formations and academic fields that intersect with it, such as Marxist theory, Critical Race Theory, Queer and Trans Studies, and Postcolonial and Decolonial Studies. Particular emphasis is placed on the concepts and debates emerging at the points of intersection and tension between these fields.