Wright State University
Masculinity in Modern Europe

C. Oldstone-Moore--Spring 2012

Requirements

Overview

This class examines the emerging field of the history of masculinity. The course is organized partly chronologically and partly thematically, beginning in late 18th century and ending in the present. Thematically, the course will explore how concepts of manliness are central to the formation and experience of social, political and cultural history, including revolution, democratization, nation-building, war, religion, family life and leisure.

Books available for Purchase

Leo Braudy, From Chivalry to Terrorism

Christopher Forth, Masculinity in the Modern West

Thomas Hughes, Tom Brown's Schooldays

Patrick McDevitt, May the Best Man Win

Reading Assignments and Questions

Most days there will be questions assigned to that day's reading. The purpose is to guide and focus the reading in preparation for class discussion. The instructor may collect written answers for credit. 

Attendance

Attendance is important because this course relies on the give-and-take of discussion as much as it does on lectures. Therefore, participation is essential to the success of each student, and of the class as a whole. Each student will be allowed three unexcused absences after the first day. After that, students will lose 5 points for every absence.

Policy on Texting and Computers

Students should not use computers or cell phones in class. They are more of a distraction than a help. A student must make a compelling case to the instructor before computers can be used.

Participation

Participation is valued at 50 points, or 17 % of the grade. Each student can earn 5 points per day when she/he contributes something of substance to that day's discussion. That means that each student must contribute on 10 days to earn full participation credit. [Presumably, two of those days will be when the Ideas Paper is presented.] On the other hand, there will be a 5-point deduction for each day a person misses class after three absences. In other words, the fourth, and subsequent classes missed will lead to a 5-point deduction.

Written Assignments

•Ideas Papers (2 pages each) Twice in the quarter, each student will print and submit an Ideas Paper. See schedule for the guide.

•Outline/Bibliography of Essay.

•First Paragraph of Essay

•Essay (8 pages) on topic of students' choosing, in consultation with instructor. There will be a 5-point deduction for every day an assignment is overdue.

•Two exams (short answer and short essay)

Grading

The course will be graded on a 300-point scale according to the following values.  An "A" will be 90% or 270 points.  "B" will be 80% or 240 points, etc.

Participation 50 pts

Ideas Papers 40 pts [2x 20 pts]

First Paragraph on time 10 pts

Essay 100 pts

Exams 100 pts (2x50)