Module: ENG6117-20 Writing Now - Prizes, Popularity and Politics

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor:  Nicola Presley

Module Tutor Contact Details: n.presley@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

How do twenty-first century writers interrogate and navigate the contemporary political and social landscape? Who decides whose voices we read and hear? This module investigates the politics, genres and controversies of literary culture in the 21st century. It will examine literary prizes, the bestseller and definitions of the 'popular', and the impact of digital media on the consumption and dissemination of texts; for example, through film and television adaptation, and social media. Through an examination of texts published within the last decade, you will interrogate the dynamic relationship between contemporary debates and writers and readers of literature. You will read and reflect on some of the most important fiction and poetry of the current time, exploring and interrogating writers’ response to the 21st century. In this module, we will consider texts that have won or been nominated for major literary prizes, and which blur the borders between the political and the popular.

By the end of this module, you will be able to demonstrate a sophisticated knowledge of a range of texts published in the last decade, and an understanding of the contemporary literary scene. In addition, through the development of an independent creative project, you will use digital platforms to examine the production and reception of 21st century literature.

2. Outline syllabus: 

The syllabus will be driven by the set texts and is organised around three key elements of literary culture – the prize-winner, the popular, and political resonance.

• Literary Culture in the 21st century

• Prizes and popularity

• Political and social contexts

• Reception and adaptation

 3. Teaching and learning activities: 

The module will be taught through lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and tutor supervision.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Digital Project and Summary (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Comparative Essay (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50