Overview

The module will begin with an introduction to theoretical approaches to fantastic literatures, and will then move on to exploring different linguistic and literary traditions, such as Francophone (such as science fiction in Franco-Belgian bande dessinée), Hispanophone (such as Latin American magic realism), and Germanophone (such as Franz Kafka and Alfred Kubin).

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -D- - D+: In order to merit the award of credit, student should demonstrate a basic comprehension of the material presented, and demonstrate that they can clearly differentiate between the various portions of that material.

-good -C- - B+: Students attaining the higher grades in this course will have shown not only comprehension of the concepts and case studies studied in their own right, but will also demonstrate a clear ability to contextualise them, grasping the historical context of each case study. They will show an ability to explore and re-evaluate critical judgements in the light of their own reading.

-excellent -A- - A*: Students attaining the highest grades in this course will have thoroughly immersed themselves in primary and secondary reading, with which they will engage at a mature and incisive level. They will produce insightful, nuanced analysis. They will have demonstrated a very high level of engagement with the conceptual as well as factual aspects of the material studied.

Learning Outcomes

• To analyse fantastic literary texts

• To be able to produce structured and coherent arguments in written assignments.

• To compare and contrast different expressions of the fantastic in a variety of linguistic and literary traditions

• To develop a critical understanding of the different genres of fantastic literatures