This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The module aims to develop your critical understanding of literary text by an exploration of the translation of narratives onto stage and screen. From Shakespearean drama to the contemporary novel, we will look at the ways in which texts can be interpreted and re-interpreted for different audiences, and the dramatic and stylistic choices that authors, directors and script writers make.
The module includes a study of stylistic variation in a selection of texts from the three main genres. Through a study of poetry we will develop an awareness of language and learn key close reading skills which we will later use in our analysis of larger texts. In the fiction segment, we will look at how prose narratives are constructed and learn to appreciate the contribution of 'point of view', the treatment of time, the use of narrators and presentation of speech and thought. In the Drama segment we will look at how selected works convey characterisation, setting, plot and how the techniques used in plays are different from those in prose fiction. The section on film will draw these two elements together, as we consider issues such as the ways in which these elements translate on to the screen.
Total contact hours: 96
Private study hours: 204
Total Study hours: 300 hours
Students are encouraged to access recommended texts electronically and online where possible, therefore costs are kept to a minimum.
Main assessment methods:
Assignment 1 (1,000 words) (15%)
In Course Test 1 (45 minutes) (15%)
Assignment 2 (1,500 words) (25%)
Seminar participation (5%)
Examination, (2 hours) (40%)
JYA English Plus Alternative Assessment in lieu of exam:
Written Assignment (1,500 words)
Reassessment methods
Reassessment Instrument: 100% coursework
Carter, A, (1979) 'The Company of Wolves'. In The Bloody Chamber. London: Vintage.
Hemingway, E, (1995) 'Mr and Mrs Elliot' and ‘Cat in the Rain’. In The First Forty-Nine Stories. London: Arrow.
Ishiguro, K. (2010) The Remains of the Day. London: Faber.
Joyce, J, (2000) ‘Araby’ and ‘Eveline’. In Dubliners. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Mansfield, K, & Smith, A. (2002) ‘Prelude’. In Selected Stories. Oxford: Oxford University Press
Shakespeare, W. & Hodgdon, B. (2010) The Taming of the Shrew. London: Arden Shakespeare
Poetry will be provided as handouts.
Please see Moodle for lists of suggested secondary material.
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:
Differentiate between the main literary genres
Appreciate the defining features of poetry, prose and film
Recognise the relationship between content and form in literature, poetry and film
Analyse text and film critically, using appropriate literary terms
Perceive how social/historical factors influence production
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Practise university-level academic reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
Demonstrate critical awareness, critical-thinking and analytical skills
Speak more confidently in public and lead seminar discussions.
Better understand the norms, structures and demands of subject specific seminars and lectures in a UK higher education context.
Understand the importance of independent study within a UK higher education context.
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.
