syllabus

Week 1: What and why are we transgressing?
The first week is devoted to introductions: of the lecturers, the participants and the topic of transgression. We will approach the meaning of transgression and its manifestations both in literal as well as metaphorical-conceptual senses. 
We will look at selected examples of performed transgression, discuss methods and especially impact. A writing and/or performing exercise within a safe space aims for participants to start reflecting on what transgression constitutes to them and what they want to transgress and why.
 
Assignment: develop a sketch for a transgressive work. Do not perform it. Reflect in particular on the challenges you expect, if you are prepared to meet them or alternative ways on which to continue

Reading: Wolfrey, J. "Introduction" in: Wolfrey, J. Transgressions. London: Bloomsbury 2018, 1-23. 

Week 2: Explicit transgression 
The second week will introduce participants to the theoretical backgrounds of transgression such as theories on abjection and the emotion of disgust. This will help us understand how transgression operates and why it is able to elicit strong responses. Selected artists examples will serve as illustrations of the mechanisms of abjection and disgust and provide the basis for joint discussion. We will uncover the politics of transgression, i.e. the socio-political meaning of transgressing and experiencing transgression. 

Assignment: Perform the Nightwatch, a 24h durational performance exercise.

Reading: Arya, R. "Abjection Interrogated: Uncovering the Relation between Abjection and Disgust," in Journal of Extreme Anthropology, Vol. 1, No. 1: 48-61.

Week 3: Implicit transgressions
In this week we will consider implicit and poetic forms of transgression different forms of transgression in performance, as generated for example by durational performance, repetitions, works employing implicit resistances through, for example, silence or superabundance. We will discuss in particular the challenges, responsibilities and ramifications of transgressive practices such as care for the performer or audience.

Assignment: Prepare your final performance

Week 4: Final performances 
The final week is all about you. We will take stock together and share our experiences from the last month. We will reflect on challenges you met and future directions you want to take. For this final session you are invited to present a performance live in class.