Sexual Identity and the Self in Literature

Sexual Identity and the Self in Literature

Stephanie Wells
Wednesday, Sep. 18, 2024, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (PT)
Repeats every Wednesday until Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024
Price: $165.00
63 slots available
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"Illustration of gender identity and fluidity"

In this course, we will explore works of literature that grapple with a variety of sexual orientations and identities articulated within the confines of a heteronormative society, and we will examine how sexual self-knowledge is woven into one’s understanding of identity (in particular, gender identity and the links between sexuality and perceived gender roles, but also national identity and social status.) 

Faculty Bio

Stephanie Wells has a B.A. from Berkeley, M.A. from University of Virginia, and Ph.D. from UC Davis, with a focus on modernism and postmodernism in American and British novels and poetry. She has been a literature professor for over 25 years and currently teaches at College of Marin.

This is an In-Person + Livestreamed Course

  • Classes meet in person at the Golden Bear Center, Suite 365, at 1995 University Ave., Berkeley
  • Classes will also stream live simultaneously
  • Classes will not be video recorded
  • Please note: Class readings are listed in the syllabus below. You’ll enjoy and engage with the texts more fully if you reserve ample time to read them slowly and in increments.
  • You must be a current OLLI @Berkeley member to register. Learn about membership, including our fee assistance program.

Schedule Highlights

  • Course starts on Wednesday, September 18, and ends on Wednesday, October 23
  • Classes meet for 6 weeks, 2 hours per session (10–noon)
  • All course materials will remain available to view and enjoy in Member Dashboards through December 31

Member Praise for Stephanie Wells

Absolutely OUTSTANDING! I treasure every moment of this course. Thank you Stephanie Wells for teaching these courses and sharing your insights so freely and enthusiastically. I have learned so much in such a short time. 

An intelligent, stimulating instructor who is well versed in her subject. I would say the same for all of the courses I have taken from Stephanie Wells.

All the material selected was organized, presented and discussed thoughtfully and shared with great insight that expanded my appreciation, perspective of understanding. I found it so exciting and rewarding to both meet and revisit so many authors and explore the wide range of material, subjects and styles explored by these women.

Faculty Q&A