麻豆传媒高清版

Overview

This module starts from the global phenomenon that is the legend of Arthur, with the aim to introduce the differences between legend (with its origins in medieval Wales) and later mythical associations. It then moves on to show how the hall of fame of super heroes that Arthur was inserted into included real/historical but also legendary/mythical super heroes, from Hector of Troy to Alexander the Great. The perennial appeal of super heroes will be explored in a range of genres and media from the medieval to the modern period, situating each of them in their historical period and political regime, for example J.F. Kennedy's 'Camelot years' and the modern super hero in film, the graphic novel and video games.

This module starts from the global phenomenon that is the legend of Arthur, with the aim to introduce the differences between legend (with its origins in medieval Wales) and later mythical associations. It will cover epic, mythical narratives, historical texts, romance, and drama, as well as, at the modern end, fantasy, media, the graphic novel and video games. Some texts and authors might include: the Mabinogion; the Romance of Alexander; Thomas Malory's Morte Darthur; medieval and early modern pageants (political; civic ceremonies), letters and historical documents about these; nineteenth-century revivals of classical and medieval themes, all the way to Mark Twain's Connecticut Yankee at King Arthur's Court, Tennyson's Idylls of the King, the new Green Knight movie (2022) and recent video games.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -D: Unsure and lacking in confidence when discussing ideas.Referring to the subject in question in a superficial mannerLittle evidence of background readingSome points in the argument irrelevant to the topicMaking an effort to provide fairly balanced answersSome uncertainty over language and syntaxStrengths and weaknesses fairly balancedIn creative work: superficial.Not succeeding in mastering the requirements of the mediumOccasionally clumsy and unimaginative

-good -B: A Discusses ideas adeptlyDisplays knowledge of the subject in question; the answer is relevant.Shows analytical and clear thought.Gives evidence of relevant reading.Most of the arguments about a specific field are well-aired.Plans of well-balanced and full answers, despite some gaps.Shows accuracy in expression with mastery over language.A few minor errors here and thereSigns of creative thought deserve a higher position within the class.In creative work: shows signs of originality, having understood the requirements of the medium.C: A 2(ii) candidate's work will show many of the following qualities:Discusses ideas, but without much confidenceMakes reference to the subject in question, but some important matters not mentionedFairly clear thought on most occasions, and the arguments relevant on the whole. Evidence of having read some works associated with the field in question.Evidence of planning in the answers, but a lack of coherence at times.Quite accurate expression, though the points may sometimes be presented clumsilySigns of conscientious work deserve a higher position within the class.In creative work: not having quite mastered the requirements of the medium.A few flashes of originality here and there.A respectable effort but not showing any unusual talent.Undisciplined and unsure at times.

-excellent -A: Discusses ideas with confidence and precisionDemonstrates maturity and sophistication.Displays deep knowledge of the subject in question; the answer is totally relevant.Shows independent, analytical and clear thoughtGives evidence of substantial and relevant reading.Shows great accuracy in expression, displaying total mastery over all aspects of the language.Shows occasional signs of brilliance and originality of thought.In creative work: displays considerable originalityCommand over medium.May have potential for publication/production.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply cultural and narrative theory to interpretations of legends, myth and the superhero

• Critically evaluate the literary qualities of major Arthurian texts

• Evaluate the historical and thematic development of Arthur as legend, myth and as superhero

• Situate texts in socio-historical, cultural and political contexts