Literature and Culture in English

On completion of this course, students will be able to:

• demonstrate a basic knowledge of a selection of contemporary literary texts from the English-speaking world, and show a good understanding of these texts
• demonstrate a basic knowledge of key literary terms and apply these terms in analyses of a literary texts
• argue for, and communicate, their own interpretation of literary texts using key literary terms, both orally and in writing
• use the writing process, and write an argumentative essay which includes a basic academic vocabulary
• account for characteristic features of the cultures and societies of the English-speaking world
• account for how traditional definitions of cultural identities are influenced by globalization and migration
• identify and analyze the relation between text and culture in the course literature
• independently search for and critically interpret information in the form of a study of a well-defined cultural or social issue
• communicate and discuss, orally and in writing, social phenomena and processes in a way that indicates intercultural understanding
• demonstrate language proficiency by applying basic English grammar and writing rules.

The course consists of two parts:

Module 1: Literature in English
This Module consists of the study of a selection of contemporary literary works from the English-speaking world. The texts focus on cultural issues such as ethnicity, identity and multiculturalism. In addition, a number of basic critical terms and concepts will be studied and applied to the literary texts in the form of seminar discussions and written assignments. The Module also contains an introduction to the writing process and academic writing. The module includes the study of academic vocabulary.

Module 2: English-speaking Cultures
This Module consists primarily of the study of non-fiction texts dealing with cultural phenomena in the English-speaking world. In addition, literary texts, some of which are studied in Module 1, are used to exemplify these phenomena. Reference is made to English-speaking cultures and countries such as Great Britain, Ireland, Canada, U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand and a selection of African countries. Textbooks, newspapers, magazines, films and the Internet form the basis for oral and written reports and discussions of contemporary, and often controversial cultural, social and political issues .

The course is examined through continuous assessment of active seminar participation and written assignments for Modules 1 and 2, as well as through a final written exam for Module 1 and a final written assignment for Module 2.

Assignments which are turned in after the stated deadline cannot receive the grade Pass with Distinction unless there are extenuating circumstances.

The course is taught in the form of lectures and seminars. Seminars will include oral and written exercises. Written exercises are discussed in seminars and individual workshops. Vocabulary is practiced through self-study. All teaching is conducted in English.

The Swedish grades U–VG.