Intro to Cultural Studies

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

This course will focus on a history and examination of the set of theories, practices and methodologies that define the field of Cultural Studies. By reading and situating the theory, we can critique the production and consumption of cultural objects, including popular culture and avant-garde art. In order to pursue critical analyses of our own in the class, we will interrogate concepts such as culture, ideology, representation, taste, style and subculture, with attention to the specific tensions between language and visual images. Texts will draw from critical and cultural theory, literature, film, video, music and the graphic novel, with a particular emphasis on contemporary artistic modes of expression.