Module Catalogue 2025/26

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The module investigates the subject of the 'recreation' of the historical past in film ['recreation' being construed as 'fictional' representations in retrospectively created 'epic' or 'historical' movies rather than in the medium of historical documentary film], and the standing of such 'fictional' filmic representation as historical evidence, both for the past event/episode depicted in the movie at issue, and for the political and socio-cultural contexts and conditions within which the movie-maker was working. The subject is investigated principally through study of a set of cinematic representations of 'historical pasts', selected with an eye to a particular theme (e.g., 'the representation of resistance, rebellion and revolution'). The module focuses particularly on 20th century 'epic' cinematic representations of ancient Rome and the Roman Empire, but it is not confined to 'Hollywood' epic; cinematic representations of post-classical and 20th century episodes bearing on Rome and its history in are also studied, for comparison and contrast. The aims of this module are to provide an opportunity: to acquire a sound general knowledge of the subject and a closer critical knowledge of some prescribed cinematic 'texts'; to read widely and critically in the primary and secondary literature associated with the subject; and to develop the capacity for independent study.

Outline Of Syllabus

Film and Reception (introductory): basics of film- and reception-theory; cinema and historiography; historical fact and fiction in the movies; the political contexts of Hollywood Epic; ancient (and post classical) Rome studied though a selected set of cinematic representations of the Roman past. The module focuses on a guiding historical theme; 'the representation in the movies of resistance, rebellion and revolution', with reference to a selected sequence of films. A sequence of up to ten cinematic representations of historical topics/episodes will be studied in the course of the module.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

A general knowledge of the historical significance of the representations of the past in cinema, and a thorough knowledge of the historical context and significance of selected cinematic representations of selected ancient/medieval/modern historical periods/topics.

Intended Skill Outcomes

Development of a capacity for independent study and critical judgement and of the ability to respond promptly, cogently and clearly to questions arising from this study.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lectures impart core knowledge and an outline of knowledge that students are expected to acquire and they stimulate development of listening and note-taking skills.
The seminar classes both consolidate knowledge gained through lectures as well as encouraging independent study and promoting improvements in oral communication, problem-solving skills and adaptability.
The workshops allow for extended engagement with and discussion of substantial films or other screened materials.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The submitted work tests intended knowledge and skills outcomes and facilitates the development of key skills in analysis, research, reading and writing. The essay allows students to explore a topic in more depth through independent research and analysis.

The regular quizzes (every two weeks), conducted in class, help consolidate learning and alert students to areas of weakness or lack of engagement, and so aid better preparation for the summative assessments.

Study-abroad, non-Erasmus exchange and Loyola students spending semester 1 only are required to finish their assessment while in Newcastle. Where an exam is present, an alternative form of assessment will be set and where coursework is present, an alternative deadline will be set. Details of the alternative assessment will be provided by the module leader.

General Notes

N/A