Aims

This module provides an introduction to medieval, Renaissance and 'long eighteenth century' literature, and gives students an opportunity to conduct independent research into a historical text of their choice. We will consider how literary forms, genres, and technologies evolve; how literary canons are created and argued over right up till today; and how modern literary critics explore contemporary concerns through analysis of older historical texts. In addition to a historical survey,teachers on this course give practical support to students as they develop the skills needed throughout their degrees (e.g. building an argument; conducting independent research; oral presentation; peer review; structuring essays).

Outline Of Syllabus

The specific texts taught on this module are subject to change due to variation in the team of lecturers who teach on this course. Students will be told in December which texts they'll definitely be studying. In the first part of this course, we will be focusing on a new primary text each week, allowing students to develop their knowledge about key literary features, genres, and context. Having gained a grounding in early period texts, students will then be able to direct their own study into a text of their own choosing, as part of a seminar group 'alternative syllabus' which aims to expand their conception of a survey course. Academic skills focused teaching will also help students to build on the practical knowledge they will need throughout their degree.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures will introduce the students to key literary texts, concepts, and critical paradigms used on the course. Seminars will be used to practice the skills outcomes outlined above. Study groups provide students with the opportunity to conduct further research into literary history and to discuss their learning. After the Easter break students will be taught independent research skills in preparation for their research project. Seminars and study groups will be used for oral presentation of concept, peer review, and assessment preparation.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

This module supports students in developing written argument and refining their research skills.

Their first assessment of an essay allows students to demonstrate their ability to create their own argument based on their close reading of literary texts, supported with secondary criticism and/or historical evidence.

For their second assessment, students will have the option of either (a) demonstrate their literary analysis and independent research skills by making a case for the cultural or literary importance of a self-selected text, which they will illustrate with a close reading of an extract, or (b) demonstrate their analytical and critical skills by writing a critical review of secondary criticism based on one of the module texts.