COMP 225(F) Wise Lady or Witchy Woman? The History of Witches (Same as German 225 and Women's and Gender Studies 223)

GERM 225(F) Wise Lady or Witchy Woman? The History of Witches (Same as Comparative Literature 225 and Women's and Gender Studies 223)
Although the first image that comes to mind may be a woman in a black hat, riding a broomstick, the word "witch" has had many meanings over its several hundred years of history. In this course we trace the development of the witch, from Scandinavian mythology to the Spanish Inquisition, from the Salem Witch Trials to The Wizard of Oz. Because the vast majority of witches have been women, this course is informed by a feminist perspective. We will examine representations of the female witch in a variety of cultural productions, and we will consider what happens when women take back the word. Materials will include historical texts, myths, fairy tales, literature, and film. Taught in English.
Format: lecture/discussion. Requirements: active class participation, frequent short writing assignments, and a final project.
No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 30 (expected enrollment: 20). Preference given to those majoring in German, Comparative Literature, Literary Studies, or Women's and Gender Studies.
Hour: HILL