University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: 2.00 pm - 4.00 pm Mon

During the English Renaissance it was widely understood that literature ought to 'instruct by pleasing'. This module is concerned with those writers and texts that seem to ignore this imperative. Why, we will ask, do writers from John Donne to Alexander Pope go out of their way to challenge or baffle or confuse or overwhelm their readers? What are the forms, conditions, and uses of literary complexity? This module might alternatively be called 'How To Read Hard Renaissance Texts.' Likely authors studied will include Donne, Marvell, Cavendish, Milton, Dryden, Swift, Pope. (Group B)

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass EN2003 and pass EN2004

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 2-hour seminar, and 2 optional consultative hours.

Scheduled learning hours: 22

Guided independent study hours: 278

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 40%, Coursework = 60%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 40%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 60%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel