The novel and its others

This module explores the trajectories of the novel as a genre in connection with surrounding discourses and genres.

This approach allows us to see the novel as a genre that crucially stages and mediates competing discourses and positions on the individual, relationships, and on the world. It also allows to envisage the journey of the novel genre outside Europe not as a “compromise” between a European form and local realities but as the further staging of key issues that the genre is called upon to grapple with, and as further mediations between existing and new local and cosmopolitan discourses.

Objectives and learning outcomes of the module

On successful completion of this module students will be able to

• Demonstrate an understanding of the novel in different historical, geographical, and cultural contexts, and of associated critical and theoretical debates.
• Demonstrate the ability to offer sustained analysis of novels from a number of historical periods, and to compare novels from different periods and contexts.
  critical and close reading skills in written responses to module material, including attention to language registers.
• Demonstrate the ability to participate in seminar discussions on themes addressed by the module.
• Demonstrate awareness of the transnational dynamics of the novel as a genre, and of the importance of local context, audience, and traditions.

Workload

This course will be taught over 22 weeks with a 2 hour lecture and a 1 hour tutorial classroom contact per week.

Method of assessment

• One three-hour written examination (worth 50% of marks)
• Two summative essays of 1,500 words (worth 20% each)
• Two formative pieces of writing of 750 words (feedback only, no numerical mark): format and content to be decided by students in discussion with lecturer
• Preparation and participation in classroom discussion (worth 10%)

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules