How have the United States and the concept of masculinity developed in tandem? While we might consider the definition of manhood to be stable and natural, it is both ever-changing and socially constructed. As such, masculinity has a history: one that is influenced by demographic, societal, cultural, technological, political, and economic change. This seminar, geared toward history majors, is intended to give students the opportunity to examine, consider, and analyze the development of masculinity in America. Our explorations will begin with the colonial era, the majority of the course will focus on the period following Reconstruction. We will pay particular attention to how masculinity interacts with femininity, race, sexuality, citizenship, and physical ability, as well as how masculinity is discussed in politics, the workplace, athletics, the armed forces, and popular culture. Over the course of the semester we will engage with a variety of media, including speeches, news reports, literature, films, music, television episodes, and advertising.
Counts Toward Majors: Gender & Sexuality Studies, History, Race and Ethnic Studies, Women's and Gender Studies
Counts Toward Concentrations: Gender & Sexuality Studies, Race and Ethnic Studies, Women's and Gender Studies
To find books for this class, please visit the St. Olaf Bookstore.