Undergraduate - UnitATS2773 - Literature and history

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Notes

Synopsis

This unit examines the ideas and views of life presented in a range of literary texts and relates these ideas to the historical contexts from which they emerged. In doing so, the unit focuses on developing effective reading strategies as well as an understanding of how literary texts may be seen both as products of history and as a means for exploring human experience in all its diversity. Students will be required to analyse a number of major works in literary history, from the late Renaissance to the twenty-first century.

Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit students will have:

1. a range of effective reading strategies, including strategies of evaluation, and advanced skills in close and critical reading.
2. an appreciation of the complex relations within and between cultural and material history.
3. detailed knowledge of the aesthetic form and social context of production of a selection of key works in literary history, from Renaissance drama to contemporary narrative.
4. an ability to debate the significance of literature and the various ways of engaging in literary interpretation.

Assessment

Minor Essay (1000 words): 30%;
Major Essay (2000 words): 40%;
Examination 2 hours (1500 words): 30%.

Chief examiner(s)

Belinda Morrisey

Contact hours

1 one-hour lecture
1 one-hour seminar per week

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

Writing
English

Prerequisites

Completion of 24 points of Arts at first-level

Prohibitions

ENH2402