Women, Culture and Society

Classes

WCS 3300: Introduction to Theory and Practice of Women's Studies

This course is an introduction to the study of women, culture, and society within various academic disciplines and within the Catholic tradition. Course components include theology, philosophy, the natural and social sciences, and art and literature. This course, which will include lectures by scholars from these disciplines (and perhaps also by members of different professions in the community), is designed to serve as the foundation course for the Women, Culture, and Society Program.

WCS 3341: Literary Criticism

Classical and contemporary theories of literature and schools of criticism. Required of English majors and English joint majors, and recommended to minors in their junior year. Oral seminar presentation required as a grade component. English majors and minors only. Fall.

WCS 3355: Intercultural Issues

A survey of world cultures, the factors distinguishing them from one another and the impact that cultural differences have on international relations. Special emphasis is placed on current cultural issues of major concern to the international community.

WCS 3358: Health Psychology

The course is designed to introduce the students to the growing field of health psychology. Students will learn how to apply psychological theories and techniques to research on how factors influence health and how psychosocial interventions can improve physical health and/or increase the quality of life.

WCS 3380: Theatre History II

Theatre History II is organized to provide an understanding of how key shifts in human communication shaped developments in the history of theatre and performance. Focusing on artifacts from the restoration through to the post-modern era, this course explores the methodologies employed by contemporary theatre historians in an effort to create a truly global perspective on drama, theatre and performance.

WCS 4319: Shakespearean Topics

Focused study of selected aspects of Shakespeare dramatic artistry and influence; organized around special topics, genres, or themes.

WCS 4337: Magic and Witchcraft to 1700

A study of the occult (astrology, divination, magical healing, necromancy, witchcraft) and its place in the development of Western civilization from late antiquity through the"witch craze" of early modern times. The practice of the occult arts will be related to the political, social and religious history of Europe.

WCS 4345: Iconography of Christian Art

An introduction to the visual representation of Christian themes from the Early Christian period to the Renaissance. Symbolic and conceptual developments of Christian subject matter in images are studied as informed by the Scriptures, Christian doctrines, and traditions.

WCS 4348: Theology of the Body

Introduction to the writings of John Paul II on the sacramental nature of creation, and in particular, the human body, male and female. Marriage as sacrament of the Communion of Persons in the Trinity. The ethics of human sexuality as integral to the responsible relationship between persons and the theology of the total, reciprocal gift of persons. Spring, odd years.

WCS 4372: Hispanic American Culture

Provides the directed student with the specific cultural insight in order to effectively deal with the ever-growing Spanish-speaking component of the U.S. or international scene. While employing the necessary Spanish-language grammar and vocabulary, the course emphasizes both interaction between the English-speaking and Spanish-speaking communities and within the Spanish-speaking community in terms of appropriate behaviors and understood knowledge among native speakers. Study of history, socio-political events, art, literature and customs of the Hispanic American countries. Spring