CLS1040

Introduction to cultural studies

(ART)

Andrew Milner

6 points + 3 hours per week + Second semester + Clayton + Prerequisite: CLS1010 + Prohibitions: PER1010

Synopsis: This subject will introduce students to different aspects of the contemporary discussion of popular culture and will explore a variety of ways in which mass market cultural products can usefully be discussed. The subject will examine (a) theoretical traditions in the analysis of popular culture; (b) the historical development and social functioning of the mass media; (c) the social mechanisms by which popular culture is produced, distributed and consumed; (d) critical approaches to the reading of popular print and audio-visual texts. These issues will be pursued in part by way of an analysis of a series of 'Frankenstein' narratives.

Assessment: One essay (2000 words): 40% + Examination (1 hour): 20% + Tutorial work (including workbook): 40%