AUS5300

Australian folk culture: a multicultural perspective

Gwenda Davey

8 or 12 points
* One 2-hour seminar per week
* First semester
* Clayton

Objectives On successful completion of the subject students should be able to identify the nature and significance of folk culture in diverse Australian communities, whether ethnic, regional, occupational or otherwise defined, and to demonstrate research skills necessary for the documentation and analysis of folk culture in Australia. Students should also demonstrate awareness of international scholarship in this area and of the work of international bodies such as the Smithsonian Center for Folklife Programs and Cultural Studies, in addition to showing understanding of seminal reference works in this field.

Synopsis This subject introduces students to traditional folk culture as a level of culture distinct from high culture or commercial popular culture. Ethnic, regional, occupational and other communities in Australia will be studied. Field work will take the form of individual projects, particularly in documenting intangible aspects of culture such as beliefs, customs, rituals, speech, pastimes or children's games.

Assessment (8 points) Class paper (1500 words): 25%
* Field project (1500 words): 25%
* Research essay (4000 words): 50%
Assessment (12 points) Class paper (2000 words): 25%
* Field project (2000 words): 25%
* Research essay (5000 words): 50%

Prescribed text

Seal G The hidden culture: Folklore in Australian society OUP, 1989