Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

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

Synopsis

This unit introduces students to a number of important ideas and literary movements like modernism, postmodernism, postcolonialism, classicism and romanticism and uses the set texts to explore the debates that have arisen in literary studies. The unit will introduce students to ways of reading and writing about literature that will equip them for further study of English.

Objectives

Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:

1. Understand and appreciate a range of literary texts in relation to literary theories, debates and movements;
2. Understand the ways in which literature engages with broaded cultural and historical contexts;
3. Demonstrate discipline-specific written and oral skills;
4. Demonstrate the ability to analyse literary texts and use them as resource material to engage critically with literary ideas, debates and movements;
5. Demonstrate some theoretical awareness and research skills in analysing literary texts.

Assessment

Close reading exercise (450 words): 10%
Class exercises and participation (900 words): 20%
Research Essay (1350 words): 30%
Examination (2 hours, 1800 words): 40%

Contact hours

Two one-hour lectures per week.
One one-hour tutorial per week.

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

Comparative literature and cultural studies
Creative writing
English