Part 1. Defining Core Concepts (10 points possible per concept)
Define each of the three concepts below (“mythical norm,” “mind-body dualism,” “interseubjectivity”) and include citations. Discuss the influence/significance of the concept in the context of this course using one cited example from course readings, lectures, or documentaries shown in class for 2 of the topics/texts listed below the concept. Answers do not need to be in essay format; no thesis statement is required. (125-175 words per concept)
Define & provide an example of the concept of the mythical norm:
In the medical model of health care as discussed by Wendy Kline
In Susan Bordo’s characterization of the legal status of the pregnant woman in “Are Mothers Persons?” in Unbearable Weight
Define & provide an example of mind-body dualism:
In relation to the concept of disability as discussed by Eli Clare in Brilliant Imperfection
In relation to the concept of “woman as other” as discussed by Simone de Beauvoir
Define the concept of intersubjectivity in relation to body modification practices as discussed by Victoria Taylor-Pitts. Provide 2 examples of the concept from personal narratives described by Pitts. Examples must be drawn from both “Reclaiming the Female Body” and “Visibly Queer.”
Answer the following 2 essay questions in 350-450 words each. Essays should include an introductory paragraph with a central thesis as well as at least 2 body paragraphs that include evidence from lectures and course readings that support your thesis. (35 points possible per essay)
Disability studies scholar Rosemarie Garland-Thomson argues “that disability is perhaps the essential characteristic of being human.” (Garland-Thomson, pg. 22).* Drawing on the works that we read and/or watched this term (in particular, Eli Clare’s Brilliant Imperfection), write a 3-paragraph essay in which you evaluate this statement in light of the fact that the subject of disability and those people associated with it are so commonly marginalized. Your essay should answer the following question: to what extent has the medical-industrial complex contributed to the rise of an ideology of cure that marginalizes persons with disabilities? Support your answer to this question by analyzing two examples from materials or examples we’ve discussed in class.
*This article was not assigned. You do not need to have read it to answer this question.
Write a 3-paragraph analysis essay that demonstrates through 2 specific examples from The Embodiment of Disobedience how the persona of a fat black woman (a contemporary celebrity, historical figure, or literary character) represents the resistance to hegemonic notions of femininity. Be sure that your argument defines how hegemonic notions of femininity differ from resistance to those norms. Also, make sure your essay takes into account the intersection of gender, race, and body size. See rubric for additional guidelines on how to approach this essay.
