Romancing the Medievel

Description

This subject develops two main threads. It studies some key genres, voices and styles of medieval writing and authorship, with a special focus on the works of Geoffrey Chaucer and his contemporaries, including several women writers. It also examines the material production of medieval texts and the relationship between writing, translation, and adaptation. The second thread explores post-medieval conceptions of medieval literature, authorship and books in fiction and film. Some of the medieval texts will be read in Middle English; others in modern translation. No prior experience in medieval literature is assumed. Teaching Period: 2 March 2026 to 31 May 2026 Assessment Information: Description Timing Percentage Translation or commentary 800 words Week 5 20% Exercise in textual analysis 1600 words (equivalent) Week 8 40% Critical essay 1600 words During the examination period 40% Hurdle requirement: Attendance hurdle requirement: This subject has a minimum requirement of 80% attendance at tutorials, seminars, or workshops. There is an expectation that students attend lectures. Throughout the teaching period N/A Hurdle requirement: 2. Assessment hurdle requirement: All pieces of assessment must be submitted to pass the subject. Each submitted assessment must be complete, constitute a genuine attempt to address the requirements of the task. Throughout the semester N/A Additional details Late penalty requirement: Assessment submitted late without an approved extension will be penalised at five per cent (5%) of the possible marks available for the assessment task per day or part thereof and will not be accepted after 20 University business days from the original assessment due date without written approval.