Module: CWR5002-20 Genre Fiction

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Celia Brayfield

Module Tutor Contact Details: c.brayfield@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This is a creative and critical module in which we will study writing in the most enduring and popular literature ever written. We will trace the development of narratives that have been imagined and reimagined over centuries and consider ways in which archetypal themes can illuminate our lives. This year we will focus on Science Fiction, Horror, Fantasy, Crime and Historical Fiction. We will study classic and contemporary novels in each genre and use them to develop some core skills of writing prose fiction.

Genre fiction is the most powerful presence in our culture. Because it dramatises our dreams and articulates our fears, it touches all our lives. Its immense popularity means that it is an important commercial force in publishing, film, television and games, and so the knowledge and understanding of genre fiction, and the ability to create it, will give you an excellent foundation for work anywhere in the creative economy. This understanding will also help you to become more thoughtful and self-aware as a person.

2. Outline syllabus:

Using informal lectures and seminar workshops we will learn how to read and interpret a text and how to understand the writer’s craft. We will produce creative work in response to the texts studied and workshop these pieces with fellow students. We will experiment with writing for different genres and begin to understand the expectations and demands of certain reading audiences. Throughout the module students will be produce their own examples of genre writing and demonstrate their willingness to experiment.

3. Teaching and learning activities:

*See Outline Syllabus above

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: A selection of work from the portfolio (2500 words or equivalent)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: An analysis of four texts studied (2500 words or equivalent)

• % Weighting: 50%