Representations of Gender

Subject 131-551 (2008)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008.Search for this in the current handbookSearch for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.500
Level: Graduate/Postgraduate
Dates & Locations:

This subject is not offered in 2008.

Time Commitment: Contact Hours: A 2-hour seminar per week
Total Time Commitment: Not available
Prerequisites: Admission to a coursework masters program, fourth year honours or postgraduate diploma in history or permission of the subject coordinator.
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Coordinator

Dr Mary Tomsic
Subject Overview:

This subject examines representations of gender in both theoretical and historical contexts. The first half of the subject looks at the categories of race, sexuality, and the body, and how these are central to any historical or contemporary construction of gender. These categories are considered in the context of feminist debates around representation, subjectivity, Western images of the 'other', language, desire and identity. The second half of the subject considers how these categories operate within a range of cultural expressions. In particular, we consider how they may be useful in analysing the construction of gender in film, literature and autobiography. Through various theoretical paradigms and frameworks students should develop an understanding of how gender representations are constructed, and how and why these change over time.

Assessment: A research essay proposal 300 words (due mid-semester) and a research essay of 4700 words 100%.
Prescribed Texts: None
Recommended Texts:

Information Not Available

Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:
  • be able to show an advanced understanding of the changing knowledge base in the specialist area;

  • be able to evaluate and synthesise the research and professional literature in the discipline;

  • develop an appreciation of the design, conduct and reporting of original research.

Related Course(s): Bachelor of Arts (Honours)(Media and Communications)
Master of Arts (Global Journalism)
Master of Arts (Global Media Communication)
Master of Arts (International Studies)(Adv. Seminars and Shorter Thesis)
Master of Arts in Gender Studies (Advanced Seminars and Shorter Thesis)
Master of Arts in History (Advanced Seminars and Shorter Thesis)
Master of Development Studies (Gender & Development)
Master of Global Media Communication
Master of International Studies
Postgraduate Certificate in Arts (Cultural Studies)
Postgraduate Certificate in Arts (History)
Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (Cultural Studies)
Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (History)

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