Course Description

Taylor Swift is one of the biggest celebrities of this millennium, with the pop star’s name being associated with many ideas and emotions, ranging from the intense love of the “swiftie” to the criticism of varying kinds that Swift faces from cultural critics and misogynists alike. This course dives into Taylor Swift’s music and songwriting to analyze and deconstruct the appeal and aversion to the singer-songwriter’s celebrity. The class will delve into the politics and culture of gender in pop music, fandom, whiteness, and power, and discuss how these topics intersect with Taylor Swift’s image. We will consider topics like Swift’s songwriting process and how it parallels the literary greats of the past, American nationalism, and the impact of social media on the rise (and fall and then rise) of Taylor Swift.

Course Reviews

Reviews coming soon.