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EN4413   Reading the 1940s

Academic year(s): 2018-2019

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: 1.00 pm - 3.00 pm Thu (class) and 2.00 pm - 5.00 pm Fri (film viewing)

This module offers students the opportunity to study the literature, film and culture of an under- explored decade. The 1940s was a period of unprecedented social and political change, and the course will consider the diversity of writing and representation that emerged from this complex context. Issues of particular concern might include responses to the Second World War, the construction of national identity, class politics, gender roles, the impact of the welfare state, the ¿golden age¿ of British cinema, the ¿end of empire¿ and the onset of the cold war. Students will acquire familiarity with a range of writing and film produced in the 1940s. They should develop an understanding of the historical context of the decade, and of contemporary ideas and attitudes. They should be able to analyse cultural constructions such as class, gender and national identity, and should be confident in discussing both film and literary texts. They will gain experience in independent research and will continue to develop a range of practical and presentational skills, both written and oral.

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:

Scheduled learning hours: 66

Guided independent study hours: 234

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

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

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor G Plain
Module teaching staff: Professor Gill Plain