Overview

This module will introduce students to various critical and creative theories relevant to the critical study, and the practice-based production, of literature, film, media and creative writing. While students will encounter a different critical approach each week, the teaching in some weeks will emphasise the links between theory and practice, showing students how to involve theory in practice-based and practice-led research. Students will develop key research, critical and writing skills for postgraduate-level assessments in this module and across the degree programmes.

The module syllabus will include a focus on a different critical / cultural theory each week. These theories will vary from year to year, but they are likely to involve: gender/queer theory; race; psychoanalytic criticism; cultural memory; materiality; postcolonialism; media theory; postcolonialism; ecocriticism.

There will also be seminars which teach key critical, research and writing skills appropriate to postgraduate study.

Assessment Strategy

50-59% A Pass (C) candidate’s work will show many of the following qualities: •A satisfactory level of knowledge, analysis and expression. •Some familiarity with, and understanding of, relevant theoretical issues. •Generally sound organisation of argument, with some critical ability. •Accurate expression. •Competent use of quotation and references.

60-69% A candidate’s work reaching Merit will show many of the following qualities: •An advanced level of factual knowledge. •Significant [substantial] knowledge of relevant theories and types of analysis. •Some evidence of original thought. •The ability to organise and argue effectively, make balanced judgements, and demonstrate critical thought. •Fluent and accurate expression. •Competent use of quotation and references.

70% and above Typically, the work of a candidate reaching Distinction will show many of the following qualities: •Thorough knowledge and understanding of relevant theories and types of analysis. •Thorough knowledge of a range of sources and the capacity to engage these critically. •Introduction and discussion of original ideas. •Relevant, well-organised and sophisticated argument. •High ratio of analysis to exposition. •Maturity, clarity and cogency of expression. •Excellent handling of quotation and references.

Learning Outcomes

• Develop and apply a literary / cultural theory in a way that informs creative practice, or offers a new reading of texts

• Identify and describe some of the major trends in literary / cultural theory, and demonstrate an ability to critically reflect upon them.

• Recognise and analyse the effectiveness of various research methodologies and acquire writing skills relevant to the evaluation or production of literature, film, media or culture;

• Write lucidly and concisely in a form and register appropriate to the task (e.g. in a literary-critical essay, there should be a formal register, and the essay should contain footnotes and a bibliography, using the appropriate reference system).