What are the key ideas you need to become a literary critic? What are the different approaches to interpreting a literary text? In this module, students will learn about some of the most important thinkers in the history of literary criticism, understand how their ideas and methods changed the way we study literature, and put them into practice in your own writing. They will study revolutionary ideas about class and capitalism, explore dreams and the unconscious, and discuss landmark texts in the history of thinking about race, gender and sexuality. They will also be guided in developing their own writing skills as a literary critic, learning how to use evidence and judgement to make arguments. By the end of the module they will have the knowledge, understanding and skills they need to embark on your own journey towards becoming a literary critic.
Lecture - 16 hours
Seminar - 16 hours
Main Assessment Methods:
Essay (1,00 words). Assessment Details: Mid-term Journal Reflection (30%).
Essay (2,000 words). Assessment Details: Literary criticism essay (70%).
Reassessment Method:
Single instrument 100% written assessment (2000 words)
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1) identify a variety of significant approaches in literary criticism
2) evaluate and deploy key concepts from literary criticism in writing
3) analyse literary and critical texts in their social and historical contexts
4) apply the methods of literary criticism to interpret literary texts
5) communicate interpretations of literary texts accurately, with structured and coherent arguments
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.