This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This advanced module in literary theory explores several key questions: what is literary theory and what is its purpose? How is it connected to social and political crisis and how does it generate a new language of cultural analysis? This module traces the development of theory in the 20th and 21st centuries and interrogates the key categories it utilises to interpret literature and culture. Ranging from critical theory to contemporary forms of theoretical discourse, the module examines different approaches to literature and culture like materialism, post-structuralism, and the ethical turn in literary studies. It also engages with the role that theory can play in contemporary society.
Private Study: 278
Contact Hours: 22
Total:300
Main assessment methods
Essay 4000 5000 words (100%)
Reassessment methods
Like for Like
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices. The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages: https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate an in depth and advanced understanding of key strands of literary and critical theory;
2 Demonstrate a knowledge of the ways in which such theories compete with and complement each other;
3 Consider the complex processes by which concepts, terms, topics, themes and procedures from continental philosophy and theory have been adapted to the subject area of English Literature;
4 Demonstrate an understanding of, and competence in handling, the analytic tools and vocabularies which are the substance of modern literary-theoretical thought.
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate the ability read a range of literary-theoretical material genres and assess the relationship among a variety of intellectual frameworks;
2 Demonstrate the capacity for self-directed research and the ability to critically evaluate and creatively deploy recent theoretical perspectives;
3 Demonstrate an ability to construct original, innovative and complex arguments.
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