Department of English

Explore how various kinds of feminist rhetoric address key public issues. Feminist rhetorical strategies are influenced by different traditions and assumptions about how change happens. As we sort through these differences, we will ask: What does “feminism” mean today? Is there even a single meaning? These questions will be addressed in the context of rhetoric about controversial high-profile public issues such as sexual violence, mandatory paid maternity leave, representations of transgender identity, and religious dress codes. Students will write essays about each public issue and do an in-class presentation about feminist rhetoric.