CRT6020 - Critical Theory: A Theorist

Leader: Alison Ross

Offered

Not offered in 2007

Synopsis

This unit aims to introduce students to some of the major works of the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche as well as some of the central texts in recent European philosophy that engage with his thought. The assessment tasks will assist students to locate the place of Nietzsche's thought in their own research projects. Starting with a brief examination of his immediate precursors in German philosophy, our focus will fall on Nietzsche's treatment of the themes of art, history, truth and critique. Texts to be considered on Nietzsche will include selections from Heidegger, Deleuze, Derrida and Irigaray.

Objectives

1. To introduce students to the writings of a major critical theorist.
2. To provide the conceptual, historical and logical tools necessary for a close reading of this major critical theorist's work.
3. To provide the resources by which this theorist's contributions can be assessed in relation to other critical theorists.

Assessment

Essay (6000 words): 80%
Seminar paper (3000 words): 20%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week