Critical study of representations of gender and sexuality in the literature of Portugal, Brazil and Lusophone Africa from the Middle Ages to the present. Attention will be given to discursive and narrative construction of gendered and sexual identities; historically and culturally variable perspectives on gender and sexuality; and the roles played by gendered agents and sexual engagements in the historical processes occurring in the Portuguese-speaking world, with particular emphasis on colonial and postcolonial contexts and relations.

Study of a selected topic, period or genre from a comparative perspective encompassing various literatures and cultures of the Portuguese-speaking world and including, if applicable, other Western and non-Western theoretical, literary and cultural readings. Literary texts, canonical and non-canonical alike, are discussed in a broadly cultural context and from a theoretically informed perspective. Focused written assignments and/or formal oral presentations contribute to the development of individual research projects pursued by the students.

Advanced study of a selected topic, period, or genre from a comparative perspective encompassing various literatures and cultures of the Portuguese-speaking world and including, if applicable, other Western and non-Western theoretical, literary and cultural readings. Literary texts, canonical and non-canonical alike, are discussed in a broadly cultural context and from a theoretically informed perspective. Students formulate and develop independent research projects exploring theoretical meanings and consequences of literary works and/or cultural phenomena.