This course provides students with a grounding in some of the major theoretical methodologies in literary studies, including postcolonialism and postmodernism, psychoanalysis, deconstruction, feminism and queer theory, and historical and cultural materialist approaches to literary texts.  The format of the course involves intensive study of a small number of literary texts that will be used as case studies for practicing a range of critical approaches.  Drawing on these texts, the course will examine important themes in literary interpretation including character, voice, narrative, and genre.  This course is strongly recommended to students considering undertaking an Honours year.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

1.  Show an appreciation of the relevance and value of theoretical models in literary study.

2.  Demonstrate an understanding of important theoretical methodologies by summarising key concepts or arguments.

3.  Demonstrate a capacity to apply these concepts or arguments in a close reading of a literary text.

Two 2000-word essays, 50% each [Learning Outcomes 1, 2 and 3].

The course consists of a one and a half hour lecture, one 1 hour tutorial, and seven and a half hours of associated study time per week.

Any two English courses or with the permission of the Convener of English

Bennett and Royle, An Introduction to Literature, Criticism and Theory (Pearson Longman, 2009).