Contemporary women's fiction and theory
P Nestor
12 points * 2 hours per week * Second semester * Clayton
The subject provides an introduction to feminist literary theory and surveys contemporary fiction by women. A focus for study will be offered by an examination of uses of autobiography, re-vision and re-construction - the act of `re-membering the self,' which is one of the fundamental preoccupations of contemporary women's writing. The subject will enable the department to extend its coverage of developments in women's literature, allowing students to build, if they choose, on the historical perspectives offered by ENH/ENM4180 (Writing women). The novels listed below will be discussed in class. The editions cited are particularly recommended, but students are free to use any edition available to them.
Assessment
Major essay (3500 words), usually based on class paper on the same topic: 40% * Two shorter papers (2500 words): 25% each * Class participation: 10% * Students whose class performance or written work is unsatisfactory may be required to sit an exam
Prescribed texts
Alther L Other women Penguin
Anderson J Tirra lirra by the river Penguin
Atwood M Cat's eye Virago
Hulme K The Bone people Pan
Lee H (ed.) The secret self: Short stories by women Dent
Modjeska D Poppy McPhee Gribble
Olsen T Tell me a riddle Virago
Sarraute N Childhood John Calder
Morrison T Beloved Picador
Weldon F The life and loves of a she devil Coronet
Note: Additional texts relating to feminist literary theory will be provided by the department
Reference
Eagleton M Feminist literary theory: A reader Blackwell
Moi T Sexual/textual politics Methuen
Showalter E The new feminist criticism Virago