106-110 Contemporary Literature

How do we imagine the world, and the world of literature, in the early 21st century? This subject introduces students to a range of contemporary writing in English from various locations around the world. We shall read these texts in the contexts of cultural globalisation and recent debates about national and global cultures, while also introducing some of the key concepts of contemporary literary studies, with a special focus on authorship and global celebrity. The set texts represent a range of genres - from the literary novel and poetry, to crime fiction and globalised post-cyberpunk. Students who complete this subject will have a good knowledge of types of contemporary literature, cultural debates and critical approaches on which to base further studies in English and cultural studies.

• be able to apply new research skills and critical methods to a field of inquiry;

• be able to develop critical self-awareness and shape and strengthen persuasive arguments;

• be able to communicate arguments and ideas effectively and articulately, both in writing and to others.

A 10-minute class presentation 10%, an exercise of 1000 words 25% (due early in semester), an essay of 1000 words 25% (due mid-semester) and an essay of 2000 words 40% (due at the end of semester). The class presentation will form the basis of one of the essays. Students are required to attend a minimum of 80% of tutorials in order to qualify to have their written work assessed.

A subject reader will be available from the University Bookshop.

• T Morrison, Beloved.
• N Stephenson, The Diamond Age.
• Amin Maalouf, Ports of Call.
• A Roy, The God of Small Things.
• M Bail, Eucalyptus.
• S Massey, The Floating Girl.
• J Forbes, Collected Poems.
• E Danticat, Krik? Krak!.