Fashion and Power: The Politics of Dress in American History

Catalog description

Clothing is one of the most visible and accessible means through which we express our identities. Hence, it is hardly surprising that political and social tensions are embedded and embodied in dress. As an expressive medium, clothing and appearance became crucial in the construction of political identities and in serving as a means of control, oppression, as well as protest and resistance. This seminar will examine the links between clothing, sartorial practices and political significance. Special attention will be given to the role of clothes in negotiating and constructing gender, race, class, sexual, and national identities. Readings will address the question of sartorial politics from a historical perspective and will focus on American history and culture from the 18th century to the present. Students may not earn credit for both this course and USSO 290U. Counts as a CAS Global & Cultural Diversity course.