ETST - Ethnic Studies
ETST 121
Traditional East Asian Civilization
An introductory survey of East Asia from the dawn of indigenous civilization to the 16th century. Focus on the growth of a Sinitic center and its interaction with the sedentary and nomadic peoples on its Inner Asian and Pacific rims. Emphasis on the diverse peoples and societies of the area and the historical processes that bound them together through a common tradition. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 160, East Asian Studies 140
ETST 135
American Indian History: Pre-Contact to 1830
An introductory survey exploring American Indian history from the period preceding contact with African and Europeans to the era of removal. Focuses on the social, cultural, political and economic diversity of native peoples and their experiences with European colonialism. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 135
ETST 136
American Indian History 1830 to the Present
This is an introductory survey exploring American Indian history from the removal era to the present. This course explores the social, political, and economic challenges Native people faced as a result of American expansion and colonialism. It focuses on the ways in which American Indian communities transformed in response to these changes, as well as their persistence and integrity as tribal nations in the present. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 136
ETST 191
Direced Study in Ethnic Studies
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. Units: Variable.
ETST 195
Internship in Ethnic Studies
Practical experience working with diverse population, focused on volunteer, policy, or advocacy work. For example, students might volunteer to tutor on the Oneida Reservation, or work with a local immigrant relocation agency. Students work for 5-10 hours a week, depending on the amount of credit being earned, meet periodically with the instructor, and submit a written reflection connecting the experience to their academic work in Ethnic Studies. Units: Variable.
ETST 200
Race and Ethnicity in the United States
An interdisciplinary study of race and ethnicity in the United States. The course examines the development of racial and ethnic categorization; patterns of stratification; and the role of political, cultural, and economic forces in shaping ideas about race and ethnicity. The course will explore the social consequences of race and ethnicity with particular attention to racial and ethnic tolerance, discrimination, and institutional racism. The Civil Rights Movement, affirmative action, and immigration policies will be analyzed, as well as connections between ethnic stratification, class, and gender. Other topics will vary from term to term. Units: 6.
ETST 210
Expressions of Ethnicity
An introductory course in which film, theatre, literature, visual arts, and music are analyzed in an effort to explore the many ways in which ethnicity is expressed, reflected, and constructed in American culture. Issues of identity, authenticity, impersonation, commodification, stereotypes, integration, and audience will be raised. Units: 6.
ETST 221
Europe in the Age of Nationalism, World War, and Totalitarianism, 1851-1990
An examination of European history from the Age of National Unification through the collapse of the Soviet Empire. Topics include imperialism, the two World Wars, the Russian Revolution, fascism, totalitarianism, mass nationalism, and the reemergence of eastern and central Europe. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 275
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor
ETST 222
History of the American West
This course examines realities and images of the frontier/western experience from exploration and settlement of North America through the present. Included are native and immigrant groups, technology, transportation, agriculture, mining, and urbanization, as well as effects of the frontier on national character. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 330
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing
ETST 223
Nationalism in Modern History
An examination of the idea and the reality of nationalism in modern history. Among the questions we will ask are: Is nationalism a modern phenomenon, or does it have pre-modern origins? Is it compatible with democracy and human rights or fundamentally hostile to them? Is it primarily a European phenomenon transplanted to other places, or are there indigenous roots of nationalism throughout the world? We will attempt to answer these questions by reading theoretical works on nationalism from a variety of disciplines and by examining historical case studies. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 295
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor
ETST 225
Indigenous Peoples in Comparative and Global Perspective
This course explores the diverse geographic, economic, legal, political, social and historical consequences of European expansion and colonialism for indigenous peoples globally. It examines this colonialism through theoretical frameworks, while also investigating its historical, political and social dynamics. Using case studies from around the world, this course concentrates on the ways in which colonialism affects indigenous peoples and the ways in which they respond to colonial powers. Units: 6.
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor
ETST 240
Sociology of Education
An examination of the social foundations of education in the United States with particular attention paid to the cultural, political, and economic functions of education in modern society. Other topics include the reproductive function of schooling in a society divided along lines of race/ethnicity and class, schools as sites of cultural production, and the historical tension in the U.S. between “equality” and “excellence” in education. Practicum of 20 hours required. Units: 6.
Also listed as Education Studies 340
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing
ETST 241
Ethnicity, Cultural Diversity, and Education
A study of the experience of children and adolescents from different ethnic, cultural, and economic groups. Emphasis on understanding the social consequences of these differences and how such differences affect educational achievement and attainment. The sources and educational effects of individual, institutional, and systemic racism, sexism, and other forms of prejudice and discrimination will also be examined. Practicum of 20 hours required. Units: 6.
Also listed as Education Studies 350
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing
ETST 250
Race, Law, and Representation in U.S. Politics
This course examines theories of political behavior and political representation through the lens of racial and ethnic politics in the United States. We focus particularly on the role of race in legislative representation, political campaigns, and minority voting rights, answering the question, “Does race affect political outcomes?” Units: 6.
Also listed as Government 225
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing; GOVT 110 or ETST 200 recommended
ETST 280
Survey of Postcolonial Literature
An introduction to major postcolonial works in their literary, historical, and cultural contexts. Readings include novels by African, Asian, and Caribbean authors such as Chinua Achebe, Salman Rushdie, and Jean Rhys. Units: 6.
Also listed as English 280
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing, ENG 150, or consent of instructor
ETST 320
Empire and Nation in Russian History
The course examines the history of ethnically diverse territories referred to as “Russia” from early modern times to 1991. Themes include the formation of the Russian empire, its transformation into the Soviet Union, and its partial collapse in 1991; the meaning of “empire,” “nation,” and “ethnicity” in historical context; and the interaction of Russians with non-Russian peoples in Ukraine, the Baltic States, Central Asia, and the Caucasus. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 315
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor; HIST 320 or 325 recommended
ETST 321
Race Relations in the United States, 1865-Present
An examination of relations between black and white Americans since Emancipation. Topics will include Reconstruction, the rise of Jim Crow, the Great Migrations, the Civil Rights Movement, urban unrest, and white backlash. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 345
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing and HIST 132
ETST 322
Modern Japanese History, 1868-2000
A discussion course on modern Japanese history from the Meiji Restoration of 1868 to the present. This course focuses on Japanese efforts to build a new, westernized state and society compatible with Japan’s traditional “national polity” and to find a new role in modern East Asia and the world. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 365, East Asian Studies 365
Prerequisite: HIST 165
ETST 325
Ethnicity in Latin America
Explores the coming together of distinct Native, African, and European ethnicities in Latin America, and the resulting creation of new ethnicities. We examine how race has been understood in Latin American history and how attitudes toward race have fundamentally shaped the history of the region. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 378
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing; HIST 178 or HIST 179 recommended
ETST 330
Indians of North America
A cultural study of the Indians of North America, including examination of the impact of European ideas and technology on Indian societies. Emphasis on environmental adaptations, levels of social and cultural complexity, problems of historical interpretation, and the methods and theories of ethnology and their applications to North American cultures. Units: 6.
Also listed as Anthropology 350
Prerequisite: ANTH 110
ETST 332
Ethnography of the Middle East and North Africa
Introduction to the diversity of social organization and cultural practice in the Middle East and North Africa. Focus on contemporary Arab and Islamic societies and their ethnic and religious minorities. Topics include tribalism, colonialism, gender, religious practices, migration, and the politics of identity. Units: 6.
Also listed as Anthropology 358
Prerequisite: ANTH 110 or consent of instructor
ETST 333
American Indians in Wisconsin
A study of the diverse history, culture, and lived experiences of American Indian people in Wisconsin from pre-contact to the present. Emphasizes the adaptability of Wisconsin Indian communities in response to Euroamerican colonialism as it changed over time and the historical and contemporary relevance of tribal sovereignty and treaty rights. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 333
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor
ETST 334
Race and Ethnicity in East Asia
This course will explore the use of the concepts of race and ethnicity in China and Japan to show how identity is constructed and used in forging national identity. The course will also examine transnationalism and the formation and articulation of ethnicity in East Asia. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 358, East Asian Studies 358
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing
ETST 360
Survey of African American Literature
A survey of African American literature from slave narratives through contemporary literature. Readings include works by Harriet Jacobs, Frederick Douglass, Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, Richard Wright, Amiri Baraka, Audre Lorde, and Toni Morrison. Units: 6.
Also listed as English 260
Prerequisite: ENG 150 or its equivalent or sophomore standing
ETST 380
“Ideal Immigrants”? The German Experience in America (in English)
This course explores what it used to mean to be German in the United States and what it means today: bratwurst, beer, and Oktoberfest. Students will consider issues raised by 19th-century immigration that still reverberate in Germany and America: cultural pluralism vs. assimilation, linguistic diversity vs. single national languages, citizenship vs. “guest” workers. Taught in English. German majors and minors may participate in a two-unit tutorial in which discussions and some course readings will be in German. Units: 6.
Also listed as German 445
ETST 381
“Ideal Immigrants”? The German Experience in America
This course explores what it used to mean to be German in the United States and what it means today: bratwurst, beer, and Oktoberfest. Students will consider issues raised by 19th-century immigration that still reverberate in Germany and America: cultural pluralism vs. assimilation, linguistic diversity vs. single national languages, citizenship vs. “guest” workers. Taught in German. Units: 6.
Also listed as German 446
Prerequisite: GER 312 or consent of instructor
ETST 382
The Literature and Culture of Ethnic Minorities in Germany
Despite a long-term refusal to open itself to immigration, Germany has become a nation of immigrants and asylum-seekers. The course focuses on how both literature and films, including works by and about minorities in Germany, have dealt with key cultural phenomena: multiculturalism, diversity, acculturation, assimilation, “majority culture,” and parallel societies. Units: 6.
Also listed as German 447, Film Studies 447
Prerequisite: GER 312 or consent of the instructor
ETST 390
Tutorial in Ethnic Studies
Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
ETST 391
Directed Study in Ethnic Studies
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. Units: Variable.
ETST 395
Internship in Ethnic Studies
Practical experience working with diverse population, focused on volunteer, policy, or advocacy work. For example, students might volunteer to tutor on the Oneida Reservation, or work with a local immigrant relocation agency. Students work for 5-10 hours a week, depending on the amount of credit being earned, meet periodically with the instructor, and submit a written reflection connecting the experience to their academic work in Ethnic Studies. Units: Variable.
ETST 399
Independent Study in Ethnic Studies
Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
ETST 420
The American Civil War
A comprehensive examination of the Civil War era between 1840 and 1877. Major themes and topics will include the political crisis leading to secession, the military conduct of the war, the end of slavery, the effects of the war on American society, and Reconstruction. Units: 6.
Also listed as History 470
Prerequisite: Junior standing and HIST 131, or consent of instructor
ETST 430
American Indians on Film
The course examines the ways in which American Indians have been depicted on film. Ethnographic, documentary, and feature films are examined and compared to understand how film has shaped our image of American Indians. Units: 6.
Also listed as Anthropology 470, Film Studies 470
Prerequisite: ANTH 350 or consent of instructor
ETST 480
Latin American Civilization and Culture
A broad introduction to the culture of the Latin American continent and its relations to North American culture. The course presents Latin American civilization, history, economic and political situation, and diverse culture. Emphasis is placed on high cultural manifestations such as art and literature, as well as on the everyday habits of the people. Recommended for students who plan to participate in one of our study-abroad programs in Latin America. Units: 6.
Also listed as Spanish 400
Prerequisite: One 300-level Spanish course, its equivalent, or consent of instructor
ETST 481
Spanish Civilization and Culture
An overview of Spanish history followed by examination of various aspects of Spanish culture. A broad introduction to the culture of Spain and its relations to North American culture. The course presents Spanish civilization, history, economic and political situation, and diverse culture. Emphasis is placed on high cultural manifestations such as art and literature, as well as on the everyday habits of the people. Recommended for students who plan to participate in one of our study-abroad programs in Spain. Units: 6.
Also listed as Spanish 405
Prerequisite: One 300-level Spanish course, its equivalent, or consent of instructor
ETST 516
Literature and Human Rights
An interdisciplinary investigation of the aesthetics and ethics of representing human rights and their violations in literature and film. Texts include novels, plays, essays, and films on topics such as genocide, torture, and development. Units: 6.
Also listed as English 516, Film Studies 416
Prerequisite: Junior standing, ENG 280, or consent of instructor
ETST 560
Contemporary British and Post-Colonial Fiction
A survey of contemporary fiction in Britain, with an emphasis on the impact of post-colonial and multicultural writers and perspectives. Authors may include Chinua Achebe, Angela Carter, Keri Hulme, Hanif Kureishi, Patrick McCabe, V. S. Naipaul, Jean Rhys, Salman Rushdie, Amos Tutuola, and Irvine Welsh. Units: 6.
Also listed as English 507
Prerequisite: Junior standing, ENG 240, or consent of instructor
ETST 561
Literature of the Harlem Renaissance
A study of poetry, fiction, and essays by African American writers from the era of World War I through the 1930s. Authors include Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, Claude McKay, Nella Larsen, W.E.B. Du Bois, and others. Units: 6.
Also listed as English 510
Prerequisite: Junior standing, ENG 250 or 260, or consent of instructor
ETST 583
Hispanic Issues
This course covers the main cultural issues in the contemporary Hispanic world. It concentrates on both the Hispanics of Latin America and those of the United States. Through theoretical materials as well as literature, film, historical documents, testimony, etc., this course addresses a variety of subjects related to the Hispanic culture. Taught in Spanish. Units: 6.
Also listed as Spanish 566
Prerequisite: One 400-level Spanish course, its equivalent, or consent of instructor
ETST 584
Black Cultural Nationalisms
A study of the variations of black cultural nationalisms in the works of francophone writers from Africa and the Diaspora. This course examines the writers, challenge to the “Négritude” school and the ways in which they articulate plural and locational black identities to affirm their unique sense of national belonging. Readings from authors such as Senghor, Cé’saire, Laye, Condé’, Chamoiseau, Contant, and Glissant. Units: 6.
Also listed as French 588
Prerequisite: One 400-level French course or consent of instructor
ETST 590
Tutoiral in Ethnic Studies
Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
ETST 591
Directed Study in Ethnic Studies
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. Units: Variable.
ETST 595
Internship in Ethnic Studies
Practical experience working with diverse population, focused on volunteer, policy, or advocacy work. For example, students might volunteer to tutor on the Oneida Reservation, or work with a local immigrant relocation agency. Students work for 5-10 hours a week, depending on the amount of credit being earned, meet periodically with the instructor, and submit a written reflection connecting the experience to their academic work in Ethnic Studies. Units: Variable.
ETST 599
Independent Study in Ethnic Studies
Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
ETST 690
Tutorial in Ethnic Studies
Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
ETST 691
Directed Study in Ethnic Studies
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. Units: Variable.
ETST 695
Internship in Ethnic Studies
Practical experience working with diverse population, focused on volunteer, policy, or advocacy work. For example, students might volunteer to tutor on the Oneida Reservation, or work with a local immigrant relocation agency. Students work for 5-10 hours a week, depending on the amount of credit being earned, meet periodically with the instructor, and submit a written reflection connecting the experience to their academic work in Ethnic Studies. Units: Variable.
ETST 699
Independent Study in Ethnic Studies
Units: Variable.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.