CLS1020 - Texts and Contexts 2

Leader: Andrew Milner

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

Continuing the work of CLS1010, this subject will explore further dimensions of the contextual study of literary and other texts, focusing in particular on narrative structures, ideology and intertextuality. These concerns will be pursued through the investigation of a series of related 'creation' stories, from Genesis and "Frankenstein" to "Blade Runner" and the "X-Files".

Objectives

Students who successfully complete this subject will have acquired:

1. a basic understanding of the role of narrative, ideology and intertextuality in textual communication;
2. familiarity with the historical transformations of a foundational narrative of Western culture (the Biblical Creation/Fall narrative) in European literature and Anglo-American popular culture;
3. greater competence in textual analysis and interpretation;
4. further skills in academic essay writing in the area of literary and cultural studies.

Assessment

Essay (1500 words): 30%
Exam 1.5 hours: 25%,
Practical work (1500 words): 35%
Tutorial participation: 10%

Contact hours

3 hours (2 x 1 hour lectures and 1 x 1 hour tutorial) per week

Prerequisites

CLS1010