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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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%)

Reassessments are normally available for all courses, except those which contribute to the Honours classification. For non Honours courses, students are offered reassessment in all or any of the components of assessment if the satisfactory (threshold) grade for the overall course is not achieved at the first attempt. This is normally grade D3 for undergraduate students and grade C3 for postgraduate students. Exceptionally it may not be possible to offer reassessment of some coursework items, in which case the mark achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade. Any such exceptions for this course are described below. 

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.

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