University of St Andrews - Scotland's first university, founded 1413

Module Catalogue

For information on which modules are specific to your programme, please see : Programme requirements index 2018-2019.

Curricular information may be subject to change.

LT4215 Senecan Tragedy

Academic year(s): 2018-2019

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Available to General Degree students with the permission of the Honours Adviser

Planned timetable: TBC

This module will explore in Latin and translation a selection of Senecan Tragedy, the 'dark side' of Seneca the Younger's literary output. We will examine the influence of Greek and Roman tragic and epic antecedents, set the 'nefarious' poetics of Senecan drama against Seneca's philosophical writings, and consider the political resonances of writing tyranny, victimhood and despair in the reign of Nero. The module will also offer the opportunity to explore the cultural impact of Seneca's tragedies and examine the potent 'afterlife' of Senecan drama in revenge tragedy more generally.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 meetings

Scheduled learning hours: 22

Guided independent study hours: 278

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 40%, Coursework = 60% (1 essay, 15%, 2 commentaries, 30%, 1 class-test, 15%)

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 55%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 45%

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Dr E Buckley