How does class feature in contemporary literature today? How do writers and poets tell their class stories? This module considers working-class writing in the context of global economic crisis, insecurity, and austerity. It examines how questions of class belonging, community, and identity shape contemporary culture, and how class interacts with other forms of non-class social exclusions. The main objective of the module is to develop a critical language to talk about class that speaks to the new realities of global contemporary society. The module also considers other modes of social exclusion, such as race and gender, and how those connect to capitalism. The module introduces a variety of modern working-class writings.
Private Study:130 hrs
Contact Hours: 20 hrs
Total: 150 hours
Main assessment methods:
Seminar Performance (20%)
Presentation (30%)
Essay (2,000 word) (50%)
Reassessment methods
100% coursework – 3,000 word essay
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
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Identify various forms and substance of class narratives
2 Understand and use key terms and concepts of class and capitalism
3 Evaluate a range of critical approaches to writings about class
4 Interpret literary texts using contemporary literary critical approaches
5 Reflect on their class and social experience
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Develop their communication skills using literary criticism as a model
2 Reflect on the logic and rhetoric of argumentation
3 Communicate their own arguments with increased skill and confidence
4 Manage their time and workload effectively
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