This course will examine the complex relationship between gender and medical diagnosis as well as the intricate relationship between patient and doctor. Students will look at medical ethics and mental health from a variety of perspectives. They will read short stories, essays, narratives by faith healers, and reports by members of the medical community. The new field of storytelling — narrative medicine — which emphasizes the importance of empathy by centering the patient’s experience in medical care and diagnosis will also be explored.

Offered Spring 2025