Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Synopsis How do the texts that surround us persuade, inform, entertain and construct us? This subject uses both literary and non-literary, verbal and visual material from different countries and historical periods to introduce students to reading as a critical practice. Language will be seen in a constant interplay with society, with belief and with habit. Texts, efficient and inefficient, familiar or unfamiliar, will be seen as both a means of communication and instruments of control. By seeing how we do things with words we hope to show how words do things with us. Students will be encouraged to analyse texts from everyday life, from their own university disciplines, and from their general reading and viewing.
Assessment Written (1500 words): 30% + Examinations (2 hours): 20% + Practical work/seminar participation: 50%