English and drama

Writing Race, Gender, and the Social: Experiments Beyond Representation

Module code: Q3199
Level 6
30 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework

This module considers how writers explore new forms as a response to social and political tensions. We ask how literary techniques operate in contemporary and historical contexts shaped by racism, sexism, and other forms of exploitation and oppression – and we ask to what extent writing can be a part of projects for liberation.

The module will require that students read a wide range of texts that eschew easy generic categorisation. Students will also develop their own writing, and up to 50% of class time may be devoted to workshopping student work. A particular question or problem may be selected by the tutor each year.

Readings might include work by Renee Gladman, Ursula K LeGuin, Fran Ross, Craig Santos Perez, Jordy Rosenberg, Wendy Trevino, Muriel Rukeyser, Juliana Spahr, Jay Bernard, Walter Benjamin, Bhanu Kapil, and Isabel Waidner.

The module will help students to bring creative writing and critical practice together in order best to navigate their aims and objectives for writing. Assessment will involve a critical/creative portfolio.

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate an understanding of the concepts raised by their special subject (the history of experimentation in writing).
• Define a topic for research which is appropriate to the module.
• Organise complex material in an extended piece of written work.
• Articulate their aims and objectives as writers and develop creative practice in this light.