|
ENG-3104: The Multicultural Detective Novel in America Work Load 10 credits (ECTS) | Type of course Theoretical subject | Level of course/Year of study First or second year at master''s level | Language of instruction English | Examination semester Spring
| Objectives Since its beginnings in the mid-nineteenth century, the detective novel has traditionally developed as an ideologically conservative genre. Even in the hard-boiled tradition, it has been primarily concerned with the protection of the rights, property, and values of middle-class men. In recent years, however, an increasing number of texts have questioned, rather than reinforced these norms. In this class we will examine the form of the genre and its historical development. We will also explore a variety of narrative strategies in these novels. These work within the genre´s conventional structures, but they also resist and subvert its conservative ideological purposes. The multicultural detective novels we will read undermine the intended reader´s comfortable assumptions about American society, and they broaden our understanding of diverse cultures. | Contents The course examines the literature/culture of indigenous people or ethnic groups in English speaking countries. Students of the course will study a selection of texts within one or more genres, and improve their understanding of central analytical terms. | Form of teaching 39 hours of teaching over 13 weeks (3 hours a week). The period of teaching starts on Tuesday 10 January (week 2) and ends in week 14. | Exam and assessment Evaluation:
Oral presentations (required but not part of final grade). 7 March.
One short paper (ca. 5 pages, 40% final grade). Due 28 March.
Paper (ca. 8-15 pages, 60% final grade). Due 10 May.
The short paper that is due March 28 will be given a tentative grade at that time. You have the chance to revise it, and submit a final version by the end of the semester.
The short and long paper will be graded by one internal (instructor) and one external (from another university) grader. Final drafts of both papers due 10 May.
If you take the course at the 3000 level, you´ll need to write at least 10 pages for the semester paper, and will be responsible for more theory/criticism.
The 3000 level students will also meet three hours per week rather than two. | Contact person/lecturer Associate Professor Laura Castor, tel.: 77 64 65 68, email: laura.castor@hum.uit.no | Recommended reading/syllabus http://uit.no/humfak/pensumlister/ |
|