University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Not automatically available to General Degree students

Planned timetable: TBC

The period of silent cinema oversaw the emergence of crucial aspects that would come to characterize cinema as both an industry and an artform. At the same time, silent film was a form somewhat distinct from the sound films that came afterwards, and one whose development proceeded differently in different global contexts. This module will examine this critical period of film history by exploring the era through a variety of contexts. The first week will set out the historical period as well as key debates in film history, as well as introduce students to more recent developments in the field. As a team-taught course, the module will ordinarily be organised in three related clusters. These clusters may include, but will not be limited to: Representations of race and gender in the silent era; silent stars; Audiences and fan cultures; Historicizing Silent Cinema; Global Silent Cinema; Early documentary; Early sound practices; and Intermedial approaches to silent film.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass FM2002

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2-hour seminar plus screening (up to 4 hours).

Scheduled learning hours: 66

Guided independent study hours: 234

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Take Home Examination (48-hour slot) = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor M Cowan
Module teaching staff: TBC
Module coordinator email mc258@st-andrews.ac.uk