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Identical coursesHistory of Subalternity, Postcolonialism and Decolonization (B-KUL-F0XL6A)
Cannot be taken as part of an examination contract
Goddeeris Idesbald (coordinator) | Goddeeris Idesbald | Rodriguez Garcia Magaly Aims
This course provides knowledge and insights into recent research in the history of subalternity and (de)coloniality. We will focus on different conceptual and methodological approaches, timeframes and geographical unites of analysis. Subalternity refers to persons or phenomena situated at the edge or outside of hegemonic power structures, discourses or customs; but, can we define all people at the margins or outside structures of power as “subaltern”? Coloniality and decoloniality are concepts that were launched by Latin American scholars (Quijano and Mignolo) in order to define the colonial legacy in social attitudes, power relations, knowledge production etc., and to criticize its universality and hegemony. The course also discusses postcolonialisms and the present-day societal debate of decolonization.
Previous knowledge
Profound knowledge of modern history (1800-2000)
Is included in these courses of study
- Study Abroad Programme in European Culture and Society (PECS) (Leuven)
- Master in de geschiedenis (Leuven) 60 ects.
- Master of History (Leuven) 60 ects.
- Educatieve master in de cultuurwetenschappen (Leuven) (Optie Geschiedenis van de oudheid tot heden) 120 ects.
- Master of Sociology (Leuven) 60 ects.
- Master of European Studies: Transnational and Global Perspectives (Leuven) (Europe and its Southern Neighbourhoods) 60 ects.
- Master of European Studies: Transnational and Global Perspectives (Leuven) (European Diversity and Cultural Policy) 60 ects.
Activities
6 ects. History of Subalternity, Postcolonialism and Decolonization (B-KUL-F0XL6a)
Content
By examining select topics, students are introduced to recent developments in the historical research on subalternity, postcolonialisms, and decolonization. Inter alia following topics may be discussed:
- Subaltern theory and historical research (sources and methods)
- The law and the construction of otherness at the domestic and international levels
- Prostitution, begging and other “demons”
- Decolonization of knowledge
- Postcolonial memory
- Postcolonial movies (in collaboration with Africa Film Festival)
The section on postcolonialisms is co-taught with colleagues from Bangalore, India, and Leuven students are paired with Bangalore ones for an assignement (see https://www.arts.kuleuven.be/studeren/onderwijsbeleid/Tentoonstellingsruimte/intercontinentale-dialoog-over-multiculturalisme-en-postkolonisalisme-1, in Dutch)
Course material
A reader will be digitally available with no additional cost. A paper copy can be purchased for about 10-20 Euros at the Textbook Service of the Student Association Historia.
Language of instruction: more information
The classes, assignments and the exam are in English. Students of Dutch programs may take their exam in Dutch.
Format: more information
The course consists of an introduction and ten classes, each focusing on one particular topic. All students work on the reading assignments and participate in the class debates. Every student writes two papers (approximately 1,500 words each) as a preparation for two of the ten classes.
Evaluation
Evaluation: History of Subalternity, Postcolonialism and Decolonization (B-KUL-F2XL6a)
Explanation
The exam matter consists of the literature and the class debates. Everybody writes one paper of approximately 1500 words. The final result is calculated on collaboration in the class discussions (10%), the paper (20%) and the written exam (70%). You cannot take your written exam if you don't submit your paper before the deadline without a valid reason.
Information about retaking exams
You keep the mark of your paper and can only take the written exam during the second exam period.