Course Catalogue

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This course examines a range of literary texts in which the subject or 'I' is foregrounded or problematised, across different genres, periods and cultures. The course aims to give an insight into the specific characteristics and cultural contexts of the individual works, while allowing students to analyse them in a comparative framework.

1 hour a week over both semesters as scheduled on MyCampus

Available to all students fulfilling requirements for Honours entry into one of the SMLC Honours programmes, and by arrangement to visiting students or students of other Honours programmes.

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The standard assessments for this course are:

■ Time-limited assignment c.1500 words, to be completed over a 5-day period at the end of semester 1 (50%) 

■ One essay c.2000 words submitted during semester 2 (50%) 

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available:

■ There is no alternative to the Time-limited Assignment, but extra time can be offered as reasonable adjustment. 

■ There is no alternative to the Essay, but extensions to the deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustment (students should follow the usual process for extensions). 

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.

This course will provide the opportunity to:

■ allow students to read and analyse a range of literary texts in which the subject or 'I' is foregrounded or problematised, across different genres, periods and cultures;

■ give an insight into the specific characteristics and cultural contexts of the individual texts, while engaging students imaginatively in the process of reading them in a comparative framework;

■ allow students to reflect critically on the course texts, using a variety of methodological approaches;

■ extend students' analytical and argumentation skills acquired at pre-Honours level;

■ develop, through written assignments and discussion, skills in the area of independent learning and critical thinking, such as the ability to analyse and compare unfamiliar/difficult material, to organise time, learn independently, argue coherently, and handle detail without losing sight of general perspectives.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding of the individual texts while making effective comparisons between them;

■ show an understanding of the cultural and intellectual contexts from which the texts emerge;

■ discuss the texts in a comparative framework, with particular reference to the ways in which ideas of the subject or subjectivity are presented and/or challenged in them;

■ show an awareness and understanding of the main critical and interpretative materials highlighted in the course;

■ articulate and develop coherent, focused and structured arguments on the texts and their interpretation, citing sources appropriately.