Gender Studies Portal

Ground-breaking when it appeared, and profoundly influential in both science fiction and feminist literature, The Left Hand of Darkness, offers an extended meditation on the nature of sex and gender in society. These ideas are explored in the thematic contexts of intercultural contact, language, and identity in a story that emphasizes both political intrigue and individual relationships. Approaching the novel through its literary, philosophical, and anthropological aspects of the work, we will discuss and consider all the above and more. Session 1: Context and introduction to the book. Introduction and Chapters 1-3 Session 2: Chapters 4-6 Session 3: Chapters 7-8 Session 4: Chapters 9-11 Session 5: Chapters 12-14 Session 6: Chapters 15-17 Session 7: Chapters 18-19 Session 8: Chapter 20, A Gethenian Calendar and Clock [show less]