Comparative Literature 2B - Introduction to Literary Criticism and Theory COMPLIT2012

  • Academic Session: 2024-25
  • School: School of Modern Languages and Cultures
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 2 (SCQF level 8)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No

Short Description

This course will introduce students to key concepts in literary theory (such as narrative theory, rhetorical analysis, tragedy, trauma theory, gender and sexuality, ideology, and psychoanalysis). These theories will be exemplified and contextualised by a range of short texts to be read in translation. Overall, the course provides a grounding in approaches to reading to prepare students for more in-depth courses at Honours level.

Timetable

Lectures on Monday and Tuesday at 4pm; seminars on Thursday (choice of times) over 10 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus.

Requirements of Entry

Grade D or above in one of the following courses: COMPLIT1001; COMPLIT1002; COMPLIT1011; FRENCH1004; GERMAN1002; ITALIAN1003; HISP1007; CLASSIC1001; CLASSIC1002; ENGLIT1001; ENGLIT1002; SCOTLIT1001; SCOTLIT1002. Other courses may be considered at the discretion of the Comparative Literature programme director.

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

Short summary of ideas and critical engagement with a literary theoretical text (1000 words) - 25%

Essay (2000 words) - 75%

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

This course aims to:  

■ Introduce students to key concepts and important ideas in literary theory, across a range of different cultures and languages (in translation).

■ Develop a more active engagement with literary texts and secondary critical reading 

■ Prepare students for more advanced and specialised courses at Honours level, including the Honours dissertation. 

■ Develop students' confidence and skill in presenting their ideas relating to literary criticism and theory. 

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

■ Recognize and articulate in their own words key concepts and important ideas in contemporary literary theory and criticism.

■ Engage in careful critical analysis of a given literary text using key theoretical concepts. 

■ Present ideas with clarity and use relevant textual examples and theoretical references to evidence their ideas. 

■ Produce a cogent written argument relating to two or more literary texts, demonstrating clear understanding of key theoretical concepts. 

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.