Course Objectives

The course provides a broad introduction to British cultural history, literature and society, with an emphasis on the post-war period.

Course Description

The course consists of two parts. The first part provides a broad introduction to British literature and cultural history prior to the Second World War, as well as a general introduction in practical literary criticism. The second part looks at the post-war period, and entails a study of representative literary works and non-fiction texts. These will serve to illustrate themes and approaches and provide students with practice in literary analysis and textual criticism. In addition, students will study important aspects of British culture, and Britain’s altered world role in the post war period. Emphasis will also be placed on how the themes can be used in a teaching situation.

Learning Methods

Lectures and seminars 4 hours per week.
The lectures will provide background and a general survey of the subject matter, while the seminar lessons will stress the verbal use of English and the discussion of individual texts from the syllabus. An attendance rate of at least 80% is required for the seminars.

Assessment Methods

Ongoing course assessment will consist of tests and/or submission of written work, which will constitute 40% of the final grade. The final examination (written or oral) counts for 60% of the final grade. Students must achieve passing marks in both the ongoing assessment and the final examination in order to achieve a final passing mark for the course.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean