ANY3170 - Visualising Cultures: Film and Ethnography

Leader: Brett Hough

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit explores the relation between film and ethnography by examining how cultures are 'visualised' - documented and represented on celluloid, usually in productions that are aimed at an educational audience rather than one that seeks pure entertainment. The ethical responsibilities of the filmmaker, the political dimension of filmic representation and the practical problems of recording another culture without 'exoticising' it will be studied. The unit also explores the issue of when visual representation can be more (or less) effective than textual discussions.

Objectives

Students in this subject can expect to become familiar with a range of ethnographic films; further their understanding of issues involved in the politics of representation; situate ethnographic film in relation to both a written tradition of ethnography and other filmed products; develop their capacity to apply theories 'visually' as well as 'textually'; improve written and oral skills in presenting, discussing and evaluating ideas and issues in anthropology by studying particular films in some detail. Students taking the unit at Third Year level will be expected in the essay to research and critically assess the work of a film-maker not covered in the set program.

Assessment

Tutorial participation: 10%
Three film reviews (500 words each): 30%
One critical essay (2000 words): 40%
Examination (1 hour): 20%

Contact hours

4 hours (2 x film screening + l hour lecture +1 tutorial) per week

Prerequisites

Appropriate first-year ANY sequence or by permission

Prohibitions

COS2170 & ANY2170