English: Literary London

This programme offers an opportunity to study the rich and varied literary history of London. This exciting programme covers literary periods from the 17th to the 21st century and encompasses film, theory and creative work as well as traditional literary scholarship. It appeals to those wishing to extend their knowledge of literature, to explore alternative approaches and perspectives, and to broaden their understanding within an interdisciplinary, comparative and international context.

The programme is designed as a structured, yet flexible programme. Courses are taught in weekly seminars which focus on the close study of literary, theoretical and cultural texts. They also provide opportunities for site-specific learning through walks and gallery visits. Students pursue supporting courses in research methods and theory and produce a final dissertation on a subject of their own choice.

Aims of the programme

• To introduce students to the rich diversity of literary responses to London and to develop their analytical and critical thinking through a variety of guided assessments
• To consider the depiction of London's contested and multicultural identity via a range of theoretical and methodological approaches
• To develop students' research and presentation skills to prepare them for further academic research or the job market
• To foster a dynamic and enjoyable learning environment in which students are encouraged to bring their own experience, writing and reading to bear on the subject of London literature

Content

• Imagining the City: Text, Theory, Writing
• Foundations for Postgraduate Study: Theory and Research Methods
• Dissertation (12 - 15,000 words)

Short courses may include:

• The London Stage
• Queer Street: The City as Performance Space
• London Crime Fiction
• Augustan and Romantic Period London
• Gothic London: Ennui, Paranoia and Apocalypse