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Module Descriptions

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UoR Home > Module Descriptions > EN2PS: Shakespeare (eve)

EN2PS: Shakespeare (eve)

Module Provider:

English

Number of credits:

20 [10 ECTS credits]

Level:

I (Intermediate)

Terms in which taught:

Autumn

Module Convenor:

Dr GJ Ioppolo

Pre-requisites:

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Current from:

2005/6

Aims:
This module aims to provide students with knowledge and understanding of a range of Shakespeare's plays. It is designed to promote an analytical appreciation of representative modes and genres in Shakespearean drama, and to develop students' awareness of the relationship between the texts and wider socio-cultural contexts of the period.
NB. The module is taught in the Autumn term, and repeated in the Spring; students may only take it once.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that students will be able to:

  • analyse the distinctive characteristics of the selected primary texts
  • recognise and discuss aspects of Shakespeare's dramatic development
  • demonstrate an awareness of the plays in their contexts
  • engage critically with the ideas presented in lectures, seminars, or secondary materials
  • organise and articulate a coherent written argument, both in coursework essays and under timed examination conditions

  • Additional outcomes:
    Students will be encouraged to develop skills of oral communication and effective participation in group work. They will also enhance their IT competence through the word-processing of assessed work and the use of relevant web resources and databases.

    Outline content:
    The module is organised chronologically in order to focus attention on different stages, genres, and periods of Shakespeare's career as a dramatist. Close study of at least six plays will encourage students to explore aspects of tradition and innovation in Shakespeare's use of theatrical modes. The module will also require also students to integrate a knowledge of the intellectual, political, religious and stage history of the period into their study of the texts.

    Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
    There will be approximately six lectures for which students will do preparatory reading. The remaining class contact time will be devoted to seminars, involving structured group discussion, seminar papers and/or oral reports. Students also receive one essay tutorial.

    Contact hours:

      Autumn Spring Summer
    Lectures Approx 6    
    Tutorials/seminars 10.5    
    Practicals      
    Other contact (eg study visits)      
           
    Total hours 16.5    
           
    Number of essays or assignments 2    
    Other (eg major seminar paper)      

    Assessment:
    Coursework
    Students will write one non-assessed essay of approximately 1500 words, and submit a second essay of no more than 2000 words for formal assessment.
    Relative percentage of coursework : Assessed Essay 33%
    Examinations
    A two-hour paper requiring two answers. The examination accounts for 67% of the overall mark for the module.
    Requirements for a pass
    An average mark of 40%
    Reassessment arrangements
    Re-examination in September. Coursework will be carried forward if it bears a confirmed mark of 40% or more. Otherwise it must be resubmitted by 1 September.

    Page last updated 26/May/2005
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