106-453 Introduction to Theory

This subject is highly recommended to students planning to enter the honours program in English literary studies, cultural studies or creative writing or who have already qualified to enter these programs.

Usually 37.5 points of second/third-year English or 37.5 points of second/third-year study for cultural studies students or admission to the postgraduate certificate or diploma or fourth year honours in English or cultural studies or honours in creative writing.

This subject provides a course of intensive reading of four theorists whose work is broadly relevant to literary and cultural studies. These may include Jacques Lacan, Michel Foucault, Jacques Derrida, Pierre Bourdieu, Gilles Deleuze, Judith Butler, and Alain Badiou. The subject is intended for students planning to enter honours the following year, or for honours students who have not already completed a similar subject. Students will learn skills of close reading of theory and a familiarity with some of the central concepts of contemporary theory.

For 3rd year students, a class presentation 10%, an essay of 1500 words 40% (due mid-semester) and an essay of 2500 words 50% (due at the end of semester). For postgraduate certificate, diploma and fourth year honours students a class presentation 10%, an essay of 2500 words 40% (due mid-semester) and an essay of 2500 words 50% (due at the end of the semester). A hurdle requirement of attendance and participation in a minimum of 9 seminars is required for completion of this subject.

A subject reader will be available from the University Bookshop