COM346 : Race, Gender, and the Media
Description:
This uniquely structured course will explore the history of modern British media and how the UK’s growing multicultural population has been reflected by, and participates in it.
Utilising archive print, sound, film and television footage, this course will cast a broad and critical focus. Among its concerns - the history of the BBC and Fleet St (and the role the class system had on their construction and operation); the reflection of youth culture; print and broadcast ‘scandals’; the promotion of racial and sexual stereotypes on TV, in film and print; soap opera’s relationship with national identity and the latter-day behemoth of reality TV. Led by former BBC Senior Broadcast journalist Jacqueline Springer, the course will also maintain a concentration on modern British music through the periods of examination. Historically, music has imparted as much of a message about society as the social and political issues of the day. As such, the galvanising messages contained in post-war recordings, the artistic rise of the working classes, the anti-establishment rebellion of reggae, punk, rap, rock, dance, UK garage and grime and the British music industry’s ongoing response to the internet, will also be addressed. Readings, assignments, visits by guest speakers and trips to venues as well as spirited classroom debate will provide students with a clear insight into Britain’s contemporary media landscape and how it compares to its US counterparts.
Limited enrollment: to be considered, students should indicate their interest on the application form and list it among the first five choices on their Course Request form. Enrollment priority given to Syracuse public communications majors. Prereq: COM 107.
Available Locations:
England
Semester(s) Offered:
Offered: Spring
Credits:
3
Department:
Communications
