Topical, thematic investigations of the literary arts in gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities, cultures, and subcultures. Literature is situated in regional, national, transnational, colonial, postcolonial, disaporic, or global contexts; understood as a catalyst for self discovery, communal survival, and political transformation; and explored as a vehicle of imaginative, creative expression. Considers a wide variety of writers and genres; engages contemporary or historical texts; advances intermediate reading and writing skills; devotes one-credit hour to foundational research experiences and information literacy; and includes opportunities to write autobiographically, reflectively, critically, and creatively. Pre-requisite: ENGL 1155 or INST 1500.