History 259 - Mary Lyon's World and the History of Mount 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 shaped it during and after Lyon's lifetime. Topics include settler colonialism 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; and efforts to achieve a just and inclusive campus. Includes research based on primary sources.

Course limited to sophomores, juniors and seniors; Prereq: Either 8 credits in History or 4 credits in History and 4 credits in either Gender Studies or Critical Race Political Economy. All other interested students may apply with an email to the instructor.