Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Notes

Synopsis

Continuing the work of ATS1275, 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

Written work (2,250 words): 50%
Exam (2 hours): 40%
Participation: 10%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Chris Worth

Contact hours

Two 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week.

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Comparative literature and cultural studies

Prerequisites

ATS1275