S0812 Contemporary British Fiction: Tradition and Multiculturalism
This course analyses really contemporary fiction published in the last decade. Many similar courses are taught in universities which are either very flexible in their use of “contemporary,” stretching it back many years, or use fiction with a specific framework in mind, such as gender studies, postmodernism or postcolonialism.
This subject is different, in the sense that it emphasises the diversity of contemporary fiction as concerns both its content and style. It is precisely the cohabitation of the traditional and the innovative which makes this literature so attractive. Although the course is basically literary, in the light of my introductory remarks, it is open to all students with an interest in understanding the nature of contemporary Britain and its culture. The course is based on three enjoyable texts, plus a reading pack containing other short literary texts and basic secondary reading which will be made available before class commences. There are, logically, no preliminary requirements..
Objectives
-To tackle the thorny question of modern (style) and contemporary (subject)
-To study the notions of roots, multiculturism and integration as represented by two contrasting treatments.
-To come to an understanding as to the role of the arts in our societyTo assess the notion of alienation in the postmodern world as it affects both men and women.
-To enjoy reading
Teaching method
Students are expected to have read the prescribed texts before class. The class itself consists of a brief introduction by the instructor who will point out the major points of interest and topics for discussion, discussion being the major pedagogical tool. The student will be encouraged to apply what has been read to his/her own experience and environment. Consequently, independent critical thinking is enhanced. The use of the VIU blog will become an essential part of fostering debate
This subject is different, in the sense that it emphasises the diversity of contemporary fiction as concerns both its content and style. It is precisely the cohabitation of the traditional and the innovative which makes this literature so attractive. Although the course is basically literary, in the light of my introductory remarks, it is open to all students with an interest in understanding the nature of contemporary Britain and its culture. The course is based on three enjoyable texts, plus a reading pack containing other short literary texts and basic secondary reading which will be made available before class commences. There are, logically, no preliminary requirements..
Objectives
-To tackle the thorny question of modern (style) and contemporary (subject)
-To study the notions of roots, multiculturism and integration as represented by two contrasting treatments.
-To come to an understanding as to the role of the arts in our societyTo assess the notion of alienation in the postmodern world as it affects both men and women.
-To enjoy reading
Teaching method
Students are expected to have read the prescribed texts before class. The class itself consists of a brief introduction by the instructor who will point out the major points of interest and topics for discussion, discussion being the major pedagogical tool. The student will be encouraged to apply what has been read to his/her own experience and environment. Consequently, independent critical thinking is enhanced. The use of the VIU blog will become an essential part of fostering debate
Syllabus
Evaluation
Readings
Evaluation
Readings