Back to Show
American Masters
"The Left Hand of Darkness" and Gender Fluidity
In 1969, Ursula K. Le Guin published a groundbreaking novel called "The Left Hand of Darkness" that questioned binary concepts of gender. Learn about the backlash from fans that found the book too controversial as well as criticism from feminists who felt that she didn’t go far enough.
Support Provided By
1:40:12
Follow the meteoric rise of firebrand politician and activist Bella Abzug.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:05
Discover the extraordinary life of poet, philosopher and music visionary Sun Ra.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:55
Learn about Elie Wiesel, Holocaust survivor and Nobel Peace Prize-winning author of Night.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:52:55
Ahead of his 100th birthday, celebrate the life and career of iconic actor Dick Van Dyke.
1:36:28
Learn about Marlee Matlin, Oscar-winning actress and champion of the Deaf community.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:45
Discover Hannah Arendt, one of the most fearless political writers of modern times.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:51:14
Trace the life and music of “Society’s Child” folk icon and LGBTQ+ advocate Janis Ian.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:36:59
Explore the career of cartoonist Art Spiegelman and his award-winning graphic novel Maus.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:42:06
Take an intimate look into the life and career of screen and stage icon Liza Minnelli.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:25
Learn about jazz artist Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own TV show.
Unlock with PBS Passport
52:55
Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.