EL3122 - The Gothic: Narratives of the Haunted, the Uncanny, the Fantastic

'The Gothic' is widely popular in contemporary literature, art, film, television and transmedia. The Gothic is often characterised by haunted landscapes, buildings and people through the presence of ghosts, monsters or other supernatural entities, and the sense of influence of the past on events in the present; and accompanied by sensations of threat, dread, anxiety and fragmentation of identity. Today's Gothic cultural forms are diverse, complex and exciting. Students who take this subject will discover a range of historical and contemporary Gothic narratives and aesthetic practices as they creatively and critically explore the diversity, meaning, and power of this enduring mode of expression.

Learning Outcomes

• integrate knowledge of the Gothic forms and creative practices in the review and analysis of a range of literature, film, art, television and transmedia;
• interpret and assess the influence of the Gothic through creative and/or critical engagement with contemporary identities and creative practices;
• demonstrate sensitivity to cultural and gender diversity in engaging with the Gothic;
• situate and evaluate theoretical approaches to the Gothic;
• investigate the Gothic using advanced digital-humanities research methods.

Subject Assessment

• Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (30%) - Individual
• Participation > Class participation - (20%) - Individual
• Essay OR Critical Appraisal and Review OR a Creative Work - (50%) - Individual.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.