EN-466 The Fantastic Imagination

The course is connected to the following study programs

• Advanced Teacher Education level 8-13, 5-year Master's Programme
• Translation and Professional Communication, Master's programme
• Master's Programme in English

Teaching language

English

Recommended prerequisites

It is recommended that EN-455 has been completed or is taken during 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 successful completion of the course 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
• relevant historical and cultural context for understanding the significance of selected primary works
• how to produce scholarly writing about fantasy in the arts

Upon successful completion of the course, students can

• utilize concepts and vocabulary associated with the analysis of fantasy literature
• understand methods of textual analysis and close reading
• identify social and historical developments that have impacted both popular and critical receptions of fantasy
• 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

Students 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.

Teaching methods

Seminars. Active and regular participation is expected. The estimated workload is approximately 270 hours.

Evaluation

The person responsible for the course decides, in cooperation with student representative, the form of student evaluation and whether the course is to have a midway or end of course evaluation in accordance with the quality system for education, chapter 4.1.

Admission for external candidates

No

Offered as Single Standing Module

Yes, if there are places available

Admission Requirement if given as Single Standing Module

Same admission requirements apply as for the master's programme in English.

Assessment methods and criteria

The exam consists of two parts: An essay that makes up 40% of the final grade and a 7 day’s individual home exam that will make up 60%. Required essay length is 3,000 words. Required word count for the home exam is 2,500 words. Graded assessment. Both parts of the exam must receive passing grades to pass the course.

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-452 – The Fantastic Imagination	10