How relevant are Mars and Venus for us today? ♀ ♂
The aim of this module is to provide students with practice in critical historical thinking through the topos of Mars and Venus. We will examine how the image of Mars and Venus (and other gods) have been transformed in history, and what kinds of meanings have been attached to these transformations. Through the critical examination of (sometimes conflicting) primary and secondary sources, including visual material, we will discuss changing gender roles, questions of the body, social and cultural norms, as well as the shifting position of arts and science. The module offers a glimpse into social scientific and historical analytic methods. It is especially suitable for students interested in history, art history, sociology, or cultural anthropology, but previous knowledge is not required.