This course focuses on representations of gender and sexuality in East Asia, including theatrical traditions and their cinematic adaptations, documentary films, short fiction, graphic novels, animation, and music videos. It will introduce students to fundamental texts in sexuality and gender studies, to the contours of East Asian culture, and to the challenges of orientalist perspectives. Sexuality and performance will be examined within the context of cultural, political, and economic exchange. We will also consider the ways in which our knowledge of the lives of people in East Asia is constructed and constrained. Freshmen are welcome.
