This course analyses works representing different aspects of heroism in European and non-European cultures. It investigates the depiction of male and female heroes in relation to politics, social changes, historical events and cultural values. It explores the notion of heroic behaviour and the challenges it poses at various times, including nineteenth and twentieth century while also examining the impact of censorship, political regimes and patriarchal role models on both genders in the cultures concerned.

Lectures Monday and Tuesday at 2.00 pm; seminars Thursday (choice of times) over 10 weeks as scheduled in MyCampus.

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Essay (1,500 words) - 40%

Exam (90 minutes) open exam within 24 hours - 60%

This course aims to:

■ investigate the depiction of male and female heroes in selected European and non-European texts in relation to politics, social changes and cultural values;

■ analyse different aspects of heroism in European and non-European cultures;

■ explore the notion of heroic behaviour and the challenges it poses at various times;

■ develop an awareness of intercultural issues by presenting set texts not only individually, but also in relation to each other;

■ develop, through the written assignment and seminar discussion, skills that are both important in their own right and are also transferable, notably independent critical thinking and judgement, the ability to assimilate, analyse and compare unfamiliar/difficult material, solve problems, produce assignments, 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:

■ identify relevant aspects of heroism in European and non-European cultures;

■ discuss selected texts in their original local contexts;

■ discuss and write critically on various aspects of male and female heroism Europe and elsewhere;

■ identify relevant aspects of the societies from which the prescribed texts emerge;

■ research primary texts for the purposes of writing an essay that employs critical skills developed during the course;

■ write coherent and structured essays, discussing the course texts with regard to the overarching common theme(s);

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