Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2005-2006 (archived)

Module FREN3231: THE ROMANCE OF THE GRAIL

Department: MODERN LANGUAGES AND CULTURES (FRENCH)

FREN3231: THE ROMANCE OF THE GRAIL

Type Open Level 3 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2005/06 Module Cap 30 Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • French Language 2 (FREN2051) or French Language 2 and Year Abroad (FREN2071) OR an equivalent qualification to the satisfaction of the Chairman/Chairwoman of the Board of Studies in MLAC or his/her representative.

Corequisites

  • Modern European Languages, Combined Honours and all Joint and 'with' programmes: French Language 4 (FREN3041). Other: see Chairman/Chairwoman of the Board of Studies in MLAC or his/her representative.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • The module seeks to examine to development of one of the most enduring of European myths and its relevance to the knowledge and appreciation of subsequent cultural manifestations.

Content

  • Two medieval texts, typically Chretien de Troyes' Perceval, La Queste del Saint Graal.
  • Two modern texts, typically Tennyson, Idylls of the King.
  • Jacques Roubaud, Graal-Theatre.
  • A selection of films: Eric Rohmer's Perceval, The Fisher King.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Using a broad range of material, including film, students will address the myth of the Grail from a number of perspectives.
  • They will develop an understanding and appreciation of medieval texts and how to respond to the cultural heritage embedded in more modern works, including film.
Subject-specific Skills:
    Key Skills:

      Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

      • Two medieval texts, typically Chretien de Troyes' Perceval, La Queste del Saint Graal.
      • Two modern texts, typically Tennyson, Idylls of the King.
      • Jacques Roubaud, Graal-Theatre.
      • A selection of films: Eric Rohmer's Perceval, The Fisher King.

      Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

      Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
      Lectures 20 1 Per Week 1 Hour 20
      Seminars 10 Fortnightly 1 Hour 10
      Preparation and Reading 170
      Total 200

      Summative Assessment

      Component: Essay Component Weighting: 50%
      Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
      Essay, in English 2500 words 100%
      Component: Examination Component Weighting: 50%
      Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
      Examination 2 hours 100%

      Formative Assessment:

      2 essays.

      ■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University