124010 VO Introduction to Cultural Theories (2015S)

This lecture course will introduce students to the field of British Cultural Studies. Together, we will explore the most important theoretical models and perspectives of the field – Culturalism, Marxism, Psychoanalysis, (Post-)Structuralism, (Post-)Modernism – in lecture sessions and tutorial discussions. These investigations will be grounded in practical examples focused on, but not limited to, visual culture. By this process students will be provided with the critical tools (theoretical, analytical, historical) necessary to analyze and evaluate popular media for what it reveals about (1) the processes of ‘meaning making’ in the production and consumption of cultural artifacts, and (2) the dynamics of representation, power, and knowledge as they relate to questions of class, race, sexuality & gender.