ENH2990

Formative influences: children0s fantasy narratives

(ART)

H Scutter

8 points + 3 hours per week + First semester + Clayton

Synopsis: Through a study of modern fantasy narratives for children, we will explore the oral and literary traditions of myth, hero legend and fairy tale which underpin adult and children's literature. Using such theoretical approaches as structuralism, psychoanalytic criticism, feminism and cultural studies, we will consider the shaping influences of traditional material as it is represented to children, and as it informs adult consciousness. The ideological assumptions implicit in cultural variants will be questioned as we trace narrative patterns to their sources in other and earlier cultures.

Assessment: Seminar paper (1500 words): 20% + Essay (2500 words): 40% + Test (2 hours): 30% + Participation: 10%