General provisions

The course is included in the Master's Programme in English.

Entry requirements

English C or 90 credits in a language subject or in comparative literature.

Learning outcomes

Upon completing the course students will be able to

• show knowledge of the main currents of thought and the most significant theorists in contemporary literary theory

• use concepts and models of literary theory to read works of fiction

• place literary theory in a greater socio-political context.

Content

What is deconstruction? How did linguistics and psychoanalysis affect the ways literary texts are read? What relation is there between debates in feminism, and gender and post-colonial studies, and literary theory? How can we define the literary qualities of a work of fiction? These are some of the questions addressed in a course which provides an introduction to the emergence, main currents, and uses of literary theory. Debates surrounding literary theory are placed in a greater, both Western and post-colonial, socio-political context.

Instruction

Group sessions. Instruction, class discussions, and examinations are in English. All teaching materials are in English.

Assessment

Students are examined continuously by means of oral presentations and written assignments. Grades are fail, pass, or pass with distinction.

Students who fail a regular examination will be offered a make-up examination within a reasonable period of time after the regular examination.

Students who fail an examination twice have the right to apply to the head of the department for permission to change examiners or examination forms.

Other directives

If the curriculum or the course literature for a course module is changed, students have the right to be examined on the original curriculum and course literature on three occasions during the following three terms. After these three opportunities, the right normally expires. No other limitations apply regarding the number of examination opportunities.

Transitional provisions

Please contact the student counsellor for transitional regulations in connection with changes in the curriculum.