English and drama
Critical Approaches
Module code: Q3120
Level 4
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Seminar, Lecture
Assessment modes: Log, Essay
How do we go about reading and interpreting literary text and other cultural phenomena? Is it necessary to understand the historical, political or philosophical context from which a work emerges? Could larger forces affect our interpretation of texts, such as our unconscious desires, our identities including our class, race, gender, sexuality or nationality? What is the politics of literary culture, and what is the politics of interpretation?
On this module, you’ll explore a number of theoretical, critical, or philosophical perspectives by which to ‘approach’ culture. This may include reading:
- psychoanalysis
- marxism
- deconstruction
- intersectional feminism
- queer theory.
You might also consider issues such as climate violence and the environment.
The effects of this module will likely ramify on other elements of your life beyond university.
Module learning outcomes
- Understand central issues in modern literary theory and criticism and put them into a wider theoretical and historical context.
- Close read, analyse and explain critical essays and arguments.
- Research, design and write a well-structured essay.
- Gain confidence in university level practices, including familiarity with library resources, research material, referencing methods, and standards of academic integrity.