Overview

Typically the seminars will cover a range of medieval literature of different genres in which monstrosity is key.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Typically, work graded D- to D+ (or 40 to 49) will show many of the following qualities: • Unsure and lacking in confidence when discussing ideas • Referring to the subject in question in a superficial manner • Making an effort to provide fairly balanced answers • Some points in the argument irrelevant to the topic • Little evidence of background reading • Some uncertainty over language and syntax • Strengths and weaknesses fairly balanced; occasionally clumsy and unimaginative • In creative work: superficial • Not succeeding in mastering the requirements of the medium -good -Typically, work graded B- to B+ (or 60 to 69) will show many of the following qualities: • Discusses ideas adeptly • Most of the arguments about a specific field are well-aired • Displays knowledge of the subject in question; the answer is relevant • Shows analytical and clear thought • Gives evidence of relevant reading • Shows accuracy in expression with mastery over language. • A few minor errors here and there. • Signs of creative thought deserve a higher position within the class • In creative work: shows signs of originality, having understood the requirements of the medium • Plans of well-balanced and full answers, despite some gaps -excellent -Typically, work graded A- to A** (or 70 to 100) will show many of the following qualities:• Discusses ideas with confidence and precision • Demonstrates maturity and sophistication • Displays deep knowledge of the subject in question; the answer is totally relevant • Shows independent, analytical and clear thought • Gives 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 originality • Command over medium; may have potential for publication/production

Learning Outcomes

• Analyse, interpret and evaluate the literary quality of the Middle English texts studied on the module.

• Identify and make use of ideas and theories relevant to an understanding of medieval conceptions of the monstrous.

• Make use of online databases of late medieval texts, developing both IT and critical skills in the process.

• Participate in the ongoing critical discussion of these texts and their authors, genres, reception and intertextuality.

• Relate the texts to their original literary and cultural contexts, particularly those of the literary construction of monstrosity.

• Select, digest and organise material and produce a consistent and coherent argument, presented in essay form, to a deadline.