AMS-10027: Transatlantic Gothic: Studies in Nineteenth-Century English and American Literature

School of Humanities

AMS-10027

Transatlantic Gothic: Studies in Nineteenth-Century English and American Literature

Co-ordinator:

Dr Tim Lustig Room: CBB1.049, Tel:33011

Teaching Team:

Level:

Credits:

Study Hours:

150

School Office:

Tel: 01782 733147

Programme/Approved Electives for

American Studies Dual Honours
American Studies Minor
American Studies Single Honours
English Dual Honours
English Minor

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Yes

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description

`Transatlantic Gothic' is an exciting and innovative course which introduces students to one of the most important of nineteenth-century literary genres, both in England and the United States. Students study the prominent texts of this period both individually and comparatively, and are given training in key critical and theoretical concepts (for example, psychoanalytical, deconstructionist and Marxist approaches to Gothic literature). The module is designed to develop intermediate writing and research skills; a formative assessment and individual feedback is also provided. Authors studied may include: Bram Stoker, Mary Shelley, Edgar Allan Poe, Charles Brockden Brown and Henry James. The course combines a variety of traditional learning activities (lectures and seminars) with small group work carried out in workshops. A balance of shorter and longer reading assignments makes the workload manageable.

Aims

To introduce students to key literary texts from two national cultures; to equip students with relevant theoretical perspectives, complementing The Unreliable Truth: Studies in Twentieth Century English and American Literatures; to develop more advanced writing and research skills, building on Starting Out: An Introduction to American Literature.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate skills of close textual analysis and the ability to use consistent and accurate bibliographic references. will be achieved by assessments: 2,3,4
Demonstrate familiarity with the generic characteristics of Gothic writing, as well as an awareness of national cultural differences and of the social and historical contexts of Gothic. will be achieved by assessments: 1,3,4,5

Describe, explain and apply key critical and theoretical terms and concepts relevant to the interpretation of Gothic writing. will be achieved by assessments: 2,3,4,5

Study hours

9 x 1-hour lectures; 9 x 1-hour seminars; 2 x 2-hour workshops; 30 minutes individual feedback; normative balance (127 hours 30 minutes) made up of private study including class and assessment preparation.

Description of Module Assessment

01: Webct

Diagnostic quiz
Start of module quiz designed to develop general knowledge of the texts and authors to be studied.

02: Exercise

Formative assessment based on workshop on key critical terms
Students will submit a 250-word description and analysis of a relevant critical term. Students will receive individual feedback within 2 weeks of submission by written proforma and 10 minute individual meeting.

03: Short Paper weighted 30%

Bibliographical exercise and essay plan (1000 words)
Following a training workshop, students will submit an annotated bibliography and essay plan. The assessment develops a more reflective awareness of the research and writing process. Students will receive feedback within 2 weeks of submission by written proforma and 20 minute individual appointment.

04: Essay weighted 60%

2,500-3,000-word essay
Questions will be provided in module documentation.

05: Class Participation weighted 10%

Assesses the quality of participation in seminars and workshops
Develops, encourages and rewards contributions as well as teamwork and time management skills.

Version: (1.04S) Created: 04/Jun/2010

This document is the definitive current source of information about this module and supersedes any other information.