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Title: History of Masculinity
Course Section Number: HIS-230-02
Department: History
Description: This course examines evolving constructions of masculinity in Europe from the mid-16th century to the present day, covering historical transformations, ideologies, and representations of masculinity within the European. Class begins by examining the traditional ideals of masculinity prevalent in the 16th century and expectations placed on men to craft families and fortunes. 天下足球网,球探比分 then move to an exploration of how social, political, and economic changes during the Enlightenment and Industrial Revolution impacted masculine identities and the expectations placed on men. Students will investigate how masculinity was shaped by medicine, nationalism, imperialism, and revolution, as well as by shifts in labor patterns and family structures. Moving deeper into the 19th century, we will face down challenges brought by feminist movements, as well as the impact of scientific developments on understandings of sex and gender. Themes such as the "cult of domesticity," militarism, and colonial masculinity will be explored. In medicine we will discuss the importance of men's health to a national audience. Readings for the tumultuous 20th century, examine the impact of two World Wars, totalitarian regimes, and rapid social changes on masculine identities. Topics include the rise of fascism (Nazism) and its glorification of hyper-masculinity, the effects of mass media on shaping masculine ideals, and the challenges to traditional masculinity posed by post-war reconstructions. In the contemporary era, the course analyzes the ongoing transformations of masculinity in response to the introduction of condoms and "the pill", globalization, neoliberalism, and changing gender norms. Finally, students will explore new representations of masculinity, including those in LGBTQ+ communities, in hegemonic masculinity, and the influence of consumer culture and digital technologies on men. Students will explore a combination of primary sources and scholarly readings. Classes will consist of discussion and lecture. Throughout, we will explore how masculinity has been constructed, contested, and renegotiated to shape societies and the power dynamics in the modern human experience.
Credits: 1.00
Start Date: August 21, 2024
End Date: December 14, 2024
Meeting Information:
08/21/2024-12/13/2024 Lecture Monday, 天下足球网,球探比分dnesday, Friday 11:00AM - 11:50AM, Baxter Hall, Room 201
Faculty: Rhoades, Michelle

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