Overview

The module will cover both the Old English and the Middle English periods, with Old English literature being taught in translation. As a second year module it builds on skills learned in the first year of university study, and broadens a student's perspective of early literature written in the English language. Through its broad coverage (600-1500) it offers a solid foundation in the English canon.

The module will cover both the Old English and the Middle English periods, with Old English literature being taught in translation. Texts will include: Beowulf; Old English Elegies; Judith; Sir Gawain and the Green Knight; Chaucer's Canterbury Tales; Thomas Malory's Le Morte Darthur; medieval drama.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -D: Unsure and lacking in confidence when discussing ideas.Referring to the subject in question in a superficial mannerLittle evidence of background readingSome points in the argument irrelevant to the topicMaking an effort to provide fairly balanced answersSome uncertainty over language and syntaxStrengths and weaknesses fairly balancedIn creative work: superficial.Not succeeding in mastering the requirements of the mediumOccasionally clumsy and unimaginative

-good -B: A Discusses ideas adeptlyDisplays knowledge of the subject in question; the answer is relevant.Shows analytical and clear thought.Gives evidence of relevant reading.Most of the arguments about a specific field are well-aired.Plans of well-balanced and full answers, despite some gaps.Shows accuracy in expression with mastery over language.A few minor errors here and thereSigns of creative thought deserve a higher position within the class.In creative work: shows signs of originality, having understood the requirements of the medium.C: A 2(ii) candidate's work will show many of the following qualities:Discusses ideas, but without much confidenceMakes reference to the subject in question, but some important matters not mentionedFairly clear thought on most occasions, and the arguments relevant on the whole. Evidence of having read some works associated with the field in question.Evidence of planning in the answers, but a lack of coherence at times.Quite accurate expression, though the points may sometimes be presented clumsilySigns of conscientious work deserve a higher position within the class.In creative work: not having quite mastered the requirements of the medium.A few flashes of originality here and there.A respectable effort but not showing any unusual talent.Undisciplined and unsure at times.

-excellent -A: Discusses ideas with confidence and precisionDemonstrates maturity and sophistication.Displays deep knowledge of the subject in question; the answer is totally relevant.Shows independent, analytical and clear thoughtGives evidence of substantial and relevant reading.Shows great accuracy in expression, displaying total mastery over all aspects of the language.Shows occasional signs of brilliance and originality of thought.In creative work: displays considerable originalityCommand over medium.May have potential for publication/production.

Learning Outcomes

• Recognise the impact of pre-Renaissance, linguistic development, basic translation skills and an awareness of the issues posed by translation

• The ability to engage in sophisticated argument and analysis of the literature of the period

• The ability to identify and discuss distinctive features of particular texts and to make connections between them

• The ability to make informed and appropriate critical analysis of the selected texts