This module is not currently running in 2026 to 2027.
Medieval literature, in all its generic diversity, from fantastical Saints’ lives, though moral tales and knightly chivalric romance is absolutely absorbed with representing what would now be called the paranormal. From the people-guzzling monsters in Beowulf, the most ancient narrative poem now known in the English Language, to the demonic forces of the era’s drama, medieval literature frequently introduces matter that authors tag as ‘marvels’. Students will explore how medieval audiences valued such stories, as representing actual entities beyond a materialist rational experience, conveying moral principles effectively, and offering great entertainment. The marvellous elements of medieval literature frequently find their ways into modern adaptations in multiple media, from the magic and dragons in Game of Thrones to the depictions of magic and monsters in a plethora of medievalist films and cast throughout gaming culture.
This module will introduce students to a range of paranormal encounters in medieval literature, from the early medieval period through to the late Middle Ages, using translated versions of the earliest and most linguistically difficult texts. The module will also allow for reflection on the adaptation of medieval paranormal fictions into modern contexts.
Lecture 16 hours
Workshop 16 hours
1000 words Primary Source Analysis. Assessment Details: Analysis of primary source (textual, material, documentary) worth 40%.
2500 words Independent Project. Assessment Details: Choice of research essay, creative response or outreach project design worth 60%.
Reassessment Method: Single instrument100% written assessment (3000 words)
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1) analyse and evaluate a range of medieval texts from a range of genres exploring paranormal themes
2) apply a range of theoretical and methodological approaches to interpret medieval textual culture, especially in respect of the religious and moral implications of the paranormal in medieval literature and to investigate modern iterations of these
3) critically evaluate current critical approaches to and debates about a variety of medieval genres, from marvellous exempla in religious writing, medieval drama and Romance literature
4) make sustained and reasoned arguments in respect of the course materials
5) be able to communicate effectively on judgements about course materials to non-expert audiences through either an essay or an outreach project
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