The course aims to give the students increased insight into and knowledge of British literature and culture, and make them capable of expressing themselves in a clear and concise manner about literary and cultural questions, both in writing and orally.

Students are expected to develop their ability to independently and critically evaluate the syllabus texts. The course provides an introduction to textual analysis in the main literary genres of prose, poetry, and drama. The ability to look for formal and thematic features is developed, and through analyses of a range of literary works students will gain an understanding of the most important periods and main developments in British literature and culture. The assigned works are interpreted in relation to key socio-cultural and political contexts.

On completion of the course the student has the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

After completing the course the student is expected to:

- Understand and use critical vocabulary related to the discipline, and demonstrate both orally and in writing an understanding of the basic conceptual and theoretical methods used when analysing literary texts;

- Grasp the differences between the various forms of literary work, such as drama, poetry and prose, and various genres within these forms as covered in the course;

- Show an understanding of the relationship between literary texts and the larger social, political and historical frameworks within which they are constructed and with which they interact

Skills

After completing the course the student will:

- Demonstrate the above skills through clearly expressed, accurately written and appropriately structured exam essays

General competence

After completing the course the student will:

- Respond independently and creatively to a range of literary works.

It is strongly advised that students, in addition to fulfilling the general admission requirements, also have good grades in specialized English courses from Upper Secondary School.

For students with a background other than the Norwegian school system, a level of competence in English corresponding to C1 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages is recommended.

The course is open to all students admitted to the University of Bergen.

For exchange students:
Applicants have to document English language proficiency to access the course. Students should hold a level of C1 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Language (CEFR). For valid tests, please see uib.no/exchange.

Lectures and seminars: up to 72 hours.

Students are expected to be actively present in class. This expectation is also the basis for the preparation towards the exam.

In the case that fewer than five students register for a course, the organized teaching may be adapted to fit the number of students. If this occurs, students will be informed at the start of the semester, and before the registration deadline 1. February/1. September.

Seminar attendance is obligatory. Students must attend at least 80 % of the seminars.

Compulsory assignments are valid for one semester following the semester of instruction.

The course exam is a seven-day take-home exam. The exam is between 2500 and 2800 words, and should be handed in electronically.

Students who do not complete their obligatory attendance (described above) lose the right to take the exam in the course.

The course includes a selection of representative texts, authors and movements in British literature (poetry, prose and drama). The texts are viewed in light of problems of basic literary theory as well as social, political and cultural perspectives, which are also covered by the relevant curriculum.

The reading list will be available by 1 December for the Spring Semester.

studierettleiar@if.uib.no

eksamen@if.uib.no