AZA1294 - Reading Africa: An introduction - 2017

The unit introduces students to the study of a variety literary and cultural texts from Africa and the genres to which they belong (e.g., poetry, prose fiction, drama and film). Students will also be asked to engage with the different ideas that critics have used to interpret African literature and culture.

On successfully completing this unit students should be able to:

1. Develop a sense of the variety of what is possible in literary and cultural studies, and a general understanding of the diversity of modern African literature and culture
2. handle the critical concepts and language appropriate to the discussion of different narrative genres, devices and techniques
3. recognise some of the theoretical perspectives that inform contemporary literary and cultural studies
4. demonstrate the basic skill of analytic and critical discussion, including the technical conventions proper to English
5. appreciate the historical perspectives and conventions within which literature and other cultural texts are produced.

Within semester assessment: 50% + Exam: 50%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Dr Joseph Minga

African studies - South Africa

ATS1294