THET408O

This class examines how bodies both make and represent culture. We will pay particular attention to the notion of the body and its attendant signifiers of race, class, gender, nation and sexuality among others. We will traverse through different theoretical realms to offer support for a view of the body as flesh and bone, but also as a socio-historical construction replete with contingent meanings. Dance, theatre, film, visual culture and performance art will provide the context of where andhow bodies perform. Ultimately, you will think about how your own body signifies on and off stage and what its cultural specificities operate within the world and its complicated ideologies. No dance or theatre experience required but willingness to experiment with your bodys performance capabilities is encouraged.