CLS2000 - Introduction to Critical Theory

Leader: Alison Ross

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit is designed to introduce students to some of those key contemporary ideas about cultural, literary and philosophical issues which are now generally brought together under the heading 'critical theory.' It aims to present an overview of leading figures within twentieth-century critical theory including Theodor Adorno, Roland Barthes, Jacques Derrida, Michael Foucault and Julia Kristeva. The unit will also encourage students to discuss the issues that these thinkers raise. Each class will focus in detail on a specific essay by one of the authors mentioned.

Assessment

Two essays (2250 words each): 100%, the second of which will be written under examination conditions

Contact hours

2.5 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 1.5 hour seminar) per week

Prerequisites

A first year sequence in English or Comparative Literature and Cultural Studies