Vorlesung: Legal Gender Studies (HS 2026)

The course “Legal Gender Studies” explores the relationships between gender and the law, with a focus on feminist and queer approaches to law. It introduces students to the historical development, methods, and key theoretical frameworks of legal gender studies, shedding light on how law both shapes and is shaped by gendered assumptions, identities, and power structures.

Alongside its engagement with feminist and queer theories, intersectionality, vulnerability, and masculinities theories, the course will focus on a range of contemporary topics, including gender-based violence and the legal questions surrounding trans and non-binary people. Methodologically, students will critically engage with legal scholarship, case law, and relevant research from the social sciences at the intersection of gender and law.

In addition to the core teaching, the course will feature guest lectures by invited experts and, subject to availability, a guided thematic visit to the Kunsthaus Zürich, exploring representations of gender, femininity, and womanhood through art.

Online-Vorlesungsverzeichnis (Online Course Catalogue)

English

Sources and reading materials will be uploaded to OLAT together with the slides.

Exam

Essay or oral examination based on the source texts provided on the subject matter.
More info will be provided during the first class and published here / onOLAT.