Literary and Cultural Studies: Contemporary Approaches
BBN-ANG-114/h
Mon 08:30-10:00, 423/a
Aims of the seminar:
This seminar aims to combine the practical analysis of literary works with an introduction to the basic theoretical and historical approaches to literature and culture that students are likely to meet during their studies at this department. We intend to work on the central skills of critical thinking, argumentation, academic writing and research.
Grading:
Students will be graded on their in-class activity, in-class tests, and a home paper (written and evaluated in three stages!).
Syllabus:
There is no syllabus. Make sure you know what to do for each week!
Materials:
Students will be provided with the compulsory and recommended literature via Microsoft Teams.
Compulsory reading:
Bertens, Hans. Literary Theory: The Basics. Routledge, 2014.
Rainsford, Dominic. Studying Literature in English: An Introduction. Routledge, 2014
Recommended reading:
Baldick, Chris. The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Literary Terms. Oxford University Press, 2001.
Pirie, David B. How To Write Critical Essays: A Guide for Students of Literature. Routledge, 2002.
In-Class Tests:
Based on the compulsory readings, question sheets and in-class discussions.
Home Essay:
stage 1) 3 March: Title, thesis statement, and 3+ items of bibliography;
stage 2) 31 March: 1-2 pages, full essay;
stage 3) 28 April: 2-3 pages, full essay.
Topic: any piece of British literature that you are interested in.
Based on: your ideas + research: you have to quote at least 3 books, papers you’ve read on the topic
at least 75% of the words should be your own
Focused – about one thing only
To the point – no long introductions, conclusions are needed
Please submit electronically