Required in stage
Optional in stage
Second term
Both terms
Not organised
This year
Next year
Alternating years
External
Prerequisites
Identical coursesWestern Literature: Concepts and Questions (B-KUL-F0UX8A)
Ingelbien Raphaël (coordinator) | D'hoker Elke | Ingelbien Raphaël | Meylaerts Reine | Darnbrough Leanne Rae (substitute) Aims
Giving the students an insight into the concept of ‘Western
Literature’, the theoretical questions that the concept throws up and
the answers that have been proposed by literary criticism. Preparing
the students for individual reflection and research on those concepts
as part of their MA thesis. Providing the students with a theoretical
framework that can prepare them for the ‘transversal’ modules in which
links between several specific aspects of Western literature will be
studied.
Previous knowledge
See Master Western Literature
Is included in these courses of study
Activities
6 ects. Western Literature: Concepts and Questions (B-KUL-F0UX8a)
EnglishFormat: Lecture
39 
First termD'hoker Elke | Ingelbien Raphaël | Meylaerts Reine | Darnbrough Leanne Rae (substitute) Content
The idea of ‘Western Literature’ is first defined, conceptualized and contextualized through the study of key literary critical texts. The course also encourages an insight into and critical reflection on the emergence, development, roles and impact of the concept of ‘Western Literature’ and of the canon that corresponds to that concept. The concept of ‘Western Literature’ is then problematized through the study of critiques coming from postcolonial studies, feminism and theories of globalization. The course thus provides insight into the relations between ‘Western Literature’ and ‘European Literature’, ‘Orientalism’, ‘World Literature’ and ‘Minority Literatures’.
Course material
- reader with basic texts
- Toledo
Format: more information
• DURING the classes:
o background will be given on the different authors, on the paradigm in general
o texts will be situated and discussed
o further discussion of the texts, of relationships between the texts etc. will be held, on the basis of the questions on Toledo AND on the basis of your personal questions, observations, critical input!
o Conclusion: your personal input is essential
Evaluation
Evaluation: Western Literature: Concepts and Questions (B-KUL-F2UX8a)
Explanation
• Written
• Open book - 4 hours
• Three questions (7-7-6 points)
• Exam language: English or Dutch
• Aim: testing the students' insight in the issues dealt with, his/her critical assimilation of the course, his/her ability to establish links throughout the material etc.