191-428 Crime and Culture

Normally 37.5 points of second/third year criminology subjects for third year and admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth year honours in criminology for fourth year. However, the subject is available to cultural studies, social theory or gender studies students who have not completed 37.5 points of criminology subjects.

This subject introduces students to theories and methods in the cultural analysis of crime. Students will then examine various case studies in the cultural representation of crime: detective fiction; the serial killer movie; images of domestic violence; cultural understandings of rape and the rape-revenge film; artwork and censorship; graffiti; and race, crime and urban space. On completion of the subject students should have an introduction to a range of theories and methods concerning crime and culture; and be able to comprehend examples of the cultural construction of crime.

• have highly developed cognitive, analytical and problem-solving skills;

• have an advanced understanding of complex concepts and the ability to express them lucidly in writing and orally;

• have sophisticated awareness of cultural, ethnic and gender diversities and their implications.

A written essay of 4000 words on a topic set by the coordinator or on the student's selected topic in consultation with the coordinator 100% (due at the end of semester). For students at 4th year and above the essay will be of 5000 words.