Gender Studies 206MA - Mary Lyon/Hist of Mt Holyoke

What world gave rise to Mary Lyon's vision for Mount Holyoke and enabled her to carry her plans to success? Has her vision persisted or been overturned? We will examine the conditions, assumptions, and exclusions that formed Mount Holyoke and the arrangements of power and struggles for justice that have shaped it ever since. Topics include colonial and missionary projects; northern racism and abolitionism; industrial capitalism and the evolution of social classes; debates over women's education, gender, and body politics; religious diversity; land and resource use; and efforts to achieve a just and inclusive campus. Includes research based on primary sources.

Course limited to sophomores, juniors and seniors; Prereq: 4 credits in History. Other students may apply with email to instructor.