University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Not automatically available to General Degree students.

Planned timetable: 10am - 12 Wed

King Arthur and his legendary Knights of the Round Table have been held as exemplary figures of chivalry since their first documented appearance in medieval romance in the twelfth century. Bold, brave, and beautiful, each of the knight protagonists embody a mixture of heroic and courtly traits that represent a depiction of idealised masculinity. However, the Arthurian world itself does not function perfectly. This module will focus on four Middle English Arthurian romances (the Alliterative Morte Arthure, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, the Awntyrs off Arthur, and sections of Thomas Malory’s Morte Darthur), each of which explore different anxieties that exist within Arthurian chivalry. Through detailed analysis of the primary texts, the module will explore the expectations of Arthurian chivalry, paying particular attention to areas of conflict, tension, and criticism.

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 Lecture (X11 weeks) 1 Seminar (X11 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 22

Guided independent study hours: 278

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 15% Close Analysis Coursework 35% Essay Coursework 50% Written Exam


Re-assessment: Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr M C Baldon
Module teaching staff: Dr Martha Baldon

Intended learning outcomes

• Students will demonstrate an ability and the confidence to read and closely analyse literature written in Middle English.
• Students will demonstrate an understanding of the different poetic forms and techniques used by Middle English poets.
• Students will possess a good level of knowledge and understanding of the sub-genre of Arthurian romance.
• Students will be able to address some of the literary and critical issues that exist within Arthurian romance.
• Students will demonstrate a sensitive awareness of the tensions that underlie concepts of chivalry both within literature of this period and in relation to contemporary historical events.