Module Assessment
This module is assessed by a 6,000 word essay.
Students are expected to come up with their own essay titles in dialogue with the module tutor. Essays for this module should be comparative, discussing at least two primary (literary) texts from different countries (or, where relevant, across national core-periphery relations). In this way the essay should interrogate, amend, apply and/or build upon selected theory from the module. In particular cases, students may opt to write an essay which focuses solely on theory, however topics will need to be approved by the tutor. In all cases, essays should attend to contextual specificities (e.g. geographies and/or histories) while demonstrating knowledge and understanding of a wide range of critical and theoretical writing on World Literature.
Your essay must address the learning outcomes for the module:
- To provide a foundational overview of World Literary Studies and enable students to interpret, evaluate and critique the key debates and major theoretical concepts in the field, both in its historical development and at the forefront of current work.
- To develop a comprehensive and advanced understanding of a variety of literary texts from a range of periods and genres, and to be able to analyse these using a variety of theoretical tools and perspectives.
- Demonstrate an ability to understand the complex contextual frames (historical, social, cultural) within which World Literature has been and continues to be read, translated, interpreted, received, and understood.
- To confidently and autonomously apply advanced conceptual ideas to the interpretation of World Literature
- To work independently to devise advanced hypotheses regarding the current state of World Literature and World Literary studies.
Choosing a topic for your essay is extremely important. Early planning is vital and will help you pace your work throughout the year. You must discuss your ideas for an essay topic carefully with your tutor well in advance of the deadline.
In marking, examiners will reward cogency of argument, the use of appropriate material, stylistic excellence and good presentation. Candidates must also satisfy examiners that they have carried out the work required by the module and met the learning outcomes.
All essays and dissertations must have a Bibliography or Works Cited. There should also be correct and full referencing of sources as in-text citation, as footnotes or as endnotes.