Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2019-2020 (archived)

Module SPAN3041: MODERN SPANISH LITERATURE

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures (Spanish)

SPAN3041: MODERN SPANISH LITERATURE

Type Open Level 3 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2019/20 Module Cap Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Spanish Language 2A (SPAN2011) OR Spanish Language 2B (SPAN2111), 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: Spanish Language 4 (SPAN3011). Other: see Chairman/Chairwoman of the Board of Studies in MLAC or his/her representative.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To develop understanding of contemporary Spanish culture and skills of critical analysis.

Content

  • Spanish literature and theatre from the 1960s to the present studied in relation to elements of critical theory and social, political and economic change.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Advanced understanding of key developments in contemporary Spanish culture.
  • Knowledge of selected literary and dramatic texts and their historical, social and cultural contexts.
  • Understanding of relevant theoretical concepts.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • By the end of the course students should be able to write clear, coherent critical essays that show a good understanding of both the set texts and the contexts within which they have been discussed.
Key Skills:
  • The ability to use ICT effectively both as a means of communication and as a learning tool (it is a requirement that all coursework is to be word-processed).
  • Extended skills in critical analysis and academic writing.
  • The further development of general written communication skills.

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

  • The module will be taught in terms 1, 2 and 3 on a ‘long-thin' basis.
  • Weekly lectures will deliver key information about the module.
  • Fortnightly seminars with smaller groups will allow for individual presentations and active discussions.
  • Three modes of summative assessment provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding and skills in different ways:
  • (i) A 1000-word analysis of critical approaches to one of the core texts studied in the first term (critical evaluation of secondary sources, understanding of theoretical contexts, concise expression).
  • (ii) A 2000-word essay in English comparing two of the core texts (research skills, understanding of primary texts and their contexts, use of secondary sources and theoretical frameworks, more extended argumentation).
  • (iii) A 2-hour written examination at the end of the year (understanding of primary texts, selective use of secondary sources and theoretical concepts, concise expression under time pressure).

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 21 1 per week 1 hour 21
Seminars 10 1 per week 1 hour 10
Preparation and Reading 169
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Essay 1 Component Weighting: 20%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Analysis of critical approaches 1000 words 100% No
Component: Essay 2 Component Weighting: 40%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Essay on two core texts 2000 words 100% No
Component: Examination Component Weighting: 40%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written Examination 2 hours 100% No

Formative Assessment:

None


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