I’ve finished putting together my reading list for History 24F, my survey course in American Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered history. Given the expense of books (and the problems we have putting together readers on campus), there’s no such thing as a perfect syllabus — but here are the four texts I’ll be asking my students to buy. It’s a fairly significant change from when I taught the course a year ago – but it’s good to experiment about.
Gay L. A.: A History of Sexual Outlaws, Power Politics, And Lipstick Lesbians, Lillian Faderman.
Stone Butch Blues, Leslie Feinberg
A Desired Past: A Short History of Same-Sex Love in America, Leila Rupp
The Essential Dykes to Watch Out For, Alison Bechdel
I read Stone Butch Blues years ago, but only thanks to recent suggestions have I decided to include it in next year’s syllabus. The Bechdel book was suggested by several folks last week — I picked up a copy, and read it over the weekend. It’s pitch-perfect. Many thanks to all who recommended it to me!
Love them all! I can’t believe you’re going to teach Bechdel. What next, Diane DiMassa? Fabulous!
As one of the several people, I’m delighted you liked the Bechdel book. I hope you write about teaching it — I’m eager to hear what your students make of it.
(Of course, this means not only are you *yourself* a comic book collector, but you are forcing your *students* to become such as well. (Mr Burns voice:) EXcellent. (/Mr Burns))
SF
For sure, Stephen, I’ll keep everyone posted.
One must move with the times, I suppose.
I’m really glad to see that Feinberg made the cut! A well deserved place, to be sure.
I’ve been planning to read Rupp for ages, since I bought a used copy and put it on the to-read pile.
On this general subject, I can’t speak highly enough of Gay New York by George Chauncey, which is probably the most engaging work of social history I’ve ever come across.
I’ve often relied on Chauncey. Very helpful in writing my own lectures.