Film as History

This course provides a cohesive contextual and theoretical basis for students specialising in one or more of the diverse regional cinema and history courses on offer in the Degree Programme. In practical terms, the core course will be divided into two discrete segments: The first term will take up historical, theoretical and methodological issues relevant to the study of history and cinema in general. The first five weeks of the course, focusing on the historical relationship between cinema and nation, will be jointly taught with students on the existing MA course Cinema, Nation and the Transcultural (taught by Isolde Standish). In the second half of the first term students will focus on theoretical issues relevant to the study of film and history under the supervision of Chris Gerteis. The second term will centre on comparative studies of themes cutting across regional and national cinemas and histories through lectures and film screenings by academic staff specializing in the history and cinemas of Africa, the Near and Middle-East, East Asia, Southeast Asia and South Asia.

Objectives and learning outcomes of the module

At the end of the course, a student should be able to demonstrate:

1. advanced knowledge and understanding of approaches, methods and theories in film and history, with particular reference to the study of Asia and Africa;
2. advanced skills in researching and writing about topics in film and history from a multidisciplinary perspective that locates the individual within the historical context of cinema’s production and reception;
3. advanced skills in presentation or communication of knowledge and understanding of topics in film and history with special reference to Asia and Africa.

Method of assessment

One 4000 word essay (40%) and one 6000 word essay (60%)

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules