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Overview

This module introduces students to key texts from the medieval and early modern periods, commencing with the opportunity to study Old English literature (in translation) and Middle English literature in the original language. You will study a variety of canonical and non-canonical texts in prose, poetry, and drama that explore the changing and conflicting definitions of heroism and villainy before 1600. You will be introduced to the religious, political, and cultural transformations of the pre-modern period, and their literary significance, addressing such issues as gender, sexuality, the power of the monarchy, violence and death, and justice. You will encounter the chivalric, the comic, the bawdy and the pious in medieval and early modern texts. This module is an ideal ‘taster’ for the medieval and early modern literature modules available at levels two and three, as well as offering a foundation for study of literature after the early modern period.

While the precise syllabus will be updated periodically, you can expect to encounter the authors: Chaucer, William Langland, Shakespeare, and Marlowe. Our themes will include villainy and heroism, religion and devotion, violence and war, gender and sexuality, chivalry, the comic, and the bawdy.

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 •In creative work: superficial •Not succeeding in mastering the requirements of the medium

-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 •In creative work: shows signs of originality, having understood the requirements of the medium •Plans of well-balanced and full answers, despite some gaps

-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 •In creative work: displays considerable originality •Command over medium; may have potential for publication/production

Learning Outcomes

• Critically analyse literature from medieval and early modern periods.

• Possess a basic knowledge of Middle English grammar and vocabulary.

• Relate pre-modern English literature to its historic and cultural contexts.

• Write persuasively and concisely on topics related to the module.