Postcolonialism: Writing & Theory

Description

The long history of empire, invasion and occupation that has shaped modernity and the struggles for national independence it has produced has resulted in a rich literature of colonisation and resistance. This course explores postcolonial writing from Shakespeare to Jean Rhys and Salman Rushdie, through the lens of major theoretical figures such as Gayatri Spivak , Homi Bhabha and Edward Said. Course aims: This course will provide the opportunity to: ■ study a wide range of literary texts engaged with Empire and its aftermath ■ consid er these texts in the light of a variety of theoretical and historical approaches ■ reflect on the relationship between literature and Empire ■ develop independent research skills through formulating and researching essay topics with appropriate guidance ■ develop skills in the art of critical writing at the appropriate level. Intended learning outcomes: By the end of this course students will be able to: ■ write an assessment of available critical and historical approaches to literature and Empire , and identify the approaches that they find most convincing ■ critically assess the language and themes of postcolonial literature ■ write in a critical and informed way about genres and techniques in postcolonial literature ■ explain the cultural and historical factors behind the histories and stories of Empire ■ develop an autonomous research interest in the field of postcolonial literature and criticism ■ communicate responses to the material studied on the course both orally and in written form through coherent and sustained argument. ■ demonstrate resilience and time management through effectively planning, undertaking and submitting coursework. ■ deal with change and new challenges by applying their disciplinary skills and knowledge to previously unfamiliar research areas and questions.