Module ENGL53630: Narrative Transformations: Medieval Romance to Renaissance Epic

Department: English Studies

ENGL53630: Narrative Transformations: Medieval Romance to Renaissance Epic

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• to introduce students (through a selection of texts) to the theory and practice of fiction from Antiquity to the Renaissance;
• to explore the processes whereby some of the great story-matters of the Western Tradition have been transformed over the ceturies;

Content

Learning Outcomes

• to engage critically with a wide range of texts from different periods;
• to have an enhanced understanding of the complex dynamics which have resulted in the dominant status of ficiton in modern culture;
• to reflect on the interplay between various genres: epic and romance, history, fable and novel;

• to be able to analyse both the mechanics and the implementations of narrative transformations;

• to write competent essays;

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

• Through a variety of teaching activities and approaches, seminars will facilitate the development of communication and critical skills. Sessions will introduce broad topics and genres, contexts and frameworks to aid conceptual understanding and specific texts for analysis as well as encourage individual interpretation and enquiry. Formative written work and consultation with the module tutor will operate as learning tools, allowing the investigation and testing of ideas and readings. Two summative assignments will assess the competencies and outcomes outlined above and foster advanced independent study.
• Typically, directed learning may include assigning student(s) an issue, theme or topic that can be independently or collectively explored within a framework and/or with additional materials provided by the tutor. This may function as preparatory work for presenting their ideas or findings (sometimes electronically) to their peers and tutor in the context of a seminar.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

One essay (2,000 words maximum).

■ 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