ENH2190 - Gods and Fairies: An Introduction to Middle English

Leader: TBA

Offered

Not offered in 2007

Synopsis

A study of verse and prose narrative from the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. The literature is read in the original language and discussed in its linguistic and cultural context. The particular focus of the subject is an examination of how a selection of Middle English texts treat the supernatural (in particular, the form and function of gods and fairies) as subject matter. The major authors, Chaucer and Malory, and a selection of anonymous Middle English texts will all be read in Middle English, while additional Old and Middle English texts will be read in translation.

Objectives

Students taking this subject should develop the following skills:

1. Reading and analyzing the language of Middle English at a basic level, with a consequent capacity to read in their original language the literary texts prescribed for study.
2. A broad knowledge of the historical and cultural background of these texts, extending the knowledge acquired in ENH2020/3020 (Heroes, Lovers and Monsters: The Literary Culture of Medieval England).
3. Knowledge and understanding of medieval literary genres and in particular the nature of and conventions used in medieval English verse and prose romance.

Assessment

Essay (2000 words): 40%
Essay (2000 words): 40%
Seminar assessment (including a paper of 500 words): 20%
An optional examination (3 hours) may replace up to 40% of the written work

Contact hours

2.5 hours (1 lecture and 1 tutorial) per week

Prerequisites

ENH2020 or ENH3020 or permission