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Queer American Poetry

Key information

  • Module code:

    7AAEM953

  • Level:

    7

  • Semester:

      Spring

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

This module looks at the work of significant American poets from the latter part of the 20th Century, with a special critical emphasis on sexuality. Beginning with the contested legacy of Langston Hughes, we cover major figures like Adrienne Rich and Frank O'Hara, alongside contemporary writers such as Eileen Myles and CA Conrad. The module takes diverse approaches to the poetry, sometimes pairing a sequence with important works of Queer theory, sometimes examining the texts within important social and historical contexts. For example, we read Jack Spicer in relation to McCarthyism and the early 'homophile' organisation the Mattachine Society; and we read John Wieners alongside Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick. Along the way, we think critically about the possibilities and limits of queerness as a map through American poetry.

Assessment details

Coursework

1 x 4000-word essay

Teaching pattern

One two-hour seminar weekly

Subject areas

Department

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.