Performing Gender

Subject 673-348 (2009)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2009. Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 3 (Undergraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject is not offered in 2009.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: A 1 hour lecture and a 2 hour tutorial per week.
Total Time Commitment: Not available
Prerequisites:

12.5 points of first year theatre studies.
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

Contact

Denise Varney

dvarney@unimelb.edu.au

Subject Overview:

This subject draws on gender theory to investigate the ways in which gender is performed in the theatre and inscribed in playtexts. It examines the representation and construction of masculinity and femininity in the theatre from classical times to the present through a study of selected plays and theatrical performances. Students are encouraged to consider the relation between performative representations of gender on stage and the lived experience of gendered subjects in history.
Objectives: Students who successfully complete this subject will be able to think in and use theoretical terms;
understand social, ethical and cultural context of play texts and theatrical performance;
think in theoretical terms through lectures, discussion, essay writing and engagement in the methodologies of the humanities, in this instance, gender theory think creatively;
think critically and analyse through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion and by determining the strength of an argument.understand social, ethical and cultural context of play texts and theatrical performance.
Assessment:

A written essay of 2500 words 50% (due at the end of semester), a seminar presentation of 1500 words 40% (due one week after presentation) and seminar participation 10%. A hurdle requirement of a minimum 80% attendance required.
Prescribed Texts:
  • Medea, Euripides
  • Othello, Shakespeare
  • Glen Garry, Glen Ross, Mamet, D.
  • Oleanna, Mamet, D.
Breadth Options:

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

  • demonstrate sound and independant critical thinking and anlaysis;

  • be able to present written and oral communication of subject matter;

  • undertake research through competent use of library and other information sources, and through defining areas of enquiry and methods of research.
Notes:

Formerly available as 760-214 Performing Gender. Students who have completed 760-214 are not permitted to enrol in this subject. This subject is available to Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Creative Arts students and may be credited towards a theatre studies major in either course and as an elective subject towards the Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in Gender Studies.
Related Course(s): Bachelor of Creative Arts
Diploma in Creative Arts
Related Majors/Minors/Specialisations: English
Gender Studies
Theatre Studies Major

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