EN-452 The Fantastic Imagination
- ECTS Credits:
- 15
- Responsible department:
- Faculty of Humanities and Education
- Course Leader:
- Stephen Darren Dougherty
- Lecture Semester:
- Autumn
- Duration:
- 1 term
The course is connected to the following study programs
Prerequisites
EN-410 and EN-411 must be passed or taken the same semester.
Course contents
Fantasy is a tremendously popular mode of storytelling today. Although this great popular appeal is a modern development, fantasy has deep roots in literary history. It is the most ancient of literary modes, and it is practiced all over the world. This course will investigate modern and contemporary fantasy, but with an eye on its long history, and its global dimensions. We will explore fantastic modes of representation across genres and media: in short stories, poetry, drama, novels, graphic novels, and television.
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of the course the students have knowledge of
-
significant works of fantasy across genres and media
-
methods and techniques of literary/critical analysis
-
the historical breadth of fantasy and the fantastic imagination in the literary arts
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relevant historical and cultural context for understanding the significance of selected primary works
-
how to produce scholarly writing about fantasy in the arts
Upon completion of the course, the student can
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utilize concepts and vocabulary associated with the analysis of fantasy literature
-
understand methods of textual analysis and close reading
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identify social and historical developments that have impacted both popular and critical receptions of fantasy
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demonstrate critical thinking in the evaluation of approaches and techniques in literary arts
-
develop independent critical arguments about the significance of fantasy in the arts
Examination requirements
The student must have gained a pass grade on an in-class presentation in order to be eligible to take the exam. Further work requirements will be disclosed at the start of the semester. Regular participation is required.
Teaching methods
Seminars. Estimated workload: Approximately 400 hours.
Evaluation
The study programme manager, in consultation with the student representative, decides the method of evaluation and whether the courses will have a midterm- or end of term evaluation, see also the Quality System, section 4.1.
Admission for external candidates
No
Offered as Single Standing Module
Yes. Subject to availability.
Assessment methods and criteria
The exam consists of two parts: An essay that makes up 40% of the final grade and a 7 days individual home exam that will make up 60%. Required essay length is 4,000-5,000 words. Required word count for the home exam is 4,000 words, +/- 10%. Both parts of the exam must receive passing grades for the student to pass the course. Graded assessment.
Reduction of Credits
This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:
| Course | Reduction of Credits |
|---|---|
| EN-466 – The Fantastic Imagination | 10 |