Asian Languages & Civilization 376 - Sex, Gender, and the Body in South Asian History

(Offered as HIST 376, ASLC 376 [SA] and SWAG 377.) This course explores how history can be understood through sex, gender, and the body. The course focuses on South Asia as part of global history. We explore what relationship sex had with medieval politics. We analyze how colonialism and capitalism dominated people through disciplining bodies. Finally, we examine how nationalisms operate through gender. Throughout the course, we interpret a range of primary sources including poetry, maps, and films. Students will have the opportunity to do independent research by visiting the Amherst College Archives and Special Collections.  

Two meetings per week. Fall semester.  Professor Gomes.

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Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Close analysis of historical evidence, which include written documents, images, music, films, and literature from the historical period under study. Exploration of the categories of sex, gender, and the body across South Asian history. Engagement with the intertwining of gender, social formations, and ethical configurations in South Asian history. Extensive reading, varying forms of written work, and intensive in-class discussions.