This is a literary studies unit. It introduces two significant and highly debated concepts in western literary tradition through a discussion of some nineteenth-century and early 21st century prose fictions in English. It aims to develop an understanding of how the terms 'romance' and 'realism' have influenced the critical discussion of literary texts. There is also some discussion of the interaction of these terms with modernism and gender theory.
When students have completed this unit, they will be able to identify some of the textual characteristics commonly associated with 'romance' and with 'realism'. Students will be able to discuss the usefulness and validity of the terms for defining texts and they will also be able to discuss the development and adaptation of 'realism' and 'romance' narratives, and challenges to them, in a number of fiction and critical texts.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
Students will be provided with an up to date reading list via the VU Collaborate system.
This unit is not compulsory for any specific course. Depending on the course you study, this unit may be taken as an elective.