Module THEO3481: Structuralism: Myth and Ritual

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO3481: Structuralism: Myth and Ritual

Prerequisites

• none

Corequisites

• none

Excluded Combination of Modules

• none

Aims

• To enable students to engage critically with Structuralist theory and methodology.
• To enable them to engage in a creative application of Structuralism to a body of mythic or ritual data with the goal of producing an original Structuralist analysis of that material.
• To broaden students' understanding of religion through critical engagement with a specific form of analysis.

Content

• A critical analysis of the key Structuralist texts, both theoretical and ethnographic. This covers both classical and neo-Structuralist thought.
• Specific engagement with Structuralist analyses of different aspects of Biblical, Christian and Jewish culture (both ancient and modern).
• A focus on Structuralist methodology to enable students to critically apply that methodology to a body of empirical data.
• An emphasis throughout the module (through formative seminar presentations and discussions) on the individual original research as a means of developing skills and critical engagement with the material.

Learning Outcomes

• A systematic understanding of key aspects of structuralist theory, and a coherent knowledge of the topics covered.

• The ability of apply structuralist methodology to a body of empirical data.

• Skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written and oral form.
• Skills in critical analysis and the exercise of independent judgement, including the ability to assess the critical ideas of others.
• Oral communication and presentation skills, including the use of technology and/or audio-visual equipment to convey information clearly and effectively.
• Time-management skills developed through independent study in preparation for seminar presentations and essays.

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

• Lectures convey information and exemplify an approach to the subject-matter, enabling students to develop a clear understanding of the subject and to improve their skills in listening and in evaluating information.
• Seminars enhance subject-specific knowledge and understanding both through preparation and through interaction with students and staff, promoting awareness of different viewpoints and approaches.
• Summative essays assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.
• Seminar presentations enhance subject-specific knowledge and understanding through critical engagement with fellow students and staff, along with skills relating to the organization of information needed for oral (and visual through power point) presentation.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Two seminar presentations (one in term one and a second in term 2).

■ 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