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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, including 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, modern media including the graphic novel and film adaptations. Some texts and authors might include: the Mabinogion; the Romance of Alexander; Richard the Lionheart; Thomas Malory's Morte Darthur; medieval and early modern pageants (political; civic ceremonies), letters and historical documents about these; nineteenth-century revivals of classical and medieval themes, both in Britain and Europe.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Typically, work graded D- to D+ (or 40 to 49) will show many of the following qualities: • Unsure and lacking in confidence when discussing ideas • Referring to the subject in question in a superficial manner • Making an effort to provide fairly balanced answers • Some points in the argument irrelevant to the topic • Little evidence of background reading • Some uncertainty over language and syntax • Strengths and weaknesses fairly balanced; occasionally clumsy and unimaginative -good -Typically, work graded B- to B+ (or 60 to 69) will show many of the following qualities: • Discusses ideas adeptly • Most of the arguments about a specific field are well-aired • Displays knowledge of the subject in question; the answer is relevant • Shows analytical and clear thought • Gives evidence of relevant reading • Shows accuracy in expression with mastery over language. • A few minor errors here and there. • Signs of creative thought deserve a higher position within the class -excellent -Typically, work graded A- to A** (or 70 to 100) will show many of the following qualities:• Discusses ideas with confidence and precision • Demonstrates maturity and sophistication • Displays deep knowledge of the subject in question; the answer is totally relevant • Shows independent, analytical and clear thought • Gives 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

Learning Outcomes

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

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

• Critically evaluate the literary qualities of major Arthurian texts

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