ENG31330 Reading Beckett

Academic Year 2018/2019

Beckett has frequently been seen as a postmodernist writer whose work is placeless and eschews national affiliation. This course by contrast will focus on the historical, materialist, and political dimensions of Beckett’s writing. It will also examine the ways in which Beckett weaves Irish themes and tropes into his plays and fictions. Central attention will be given to the symbol of the body in pain in his oeuvre and to its materialist dimensions and signifying power. Additionally, this module will track the trajectory of Beckett’s career and consider the increasing espousal of “lessness” and an aesthetics of attrition in his texts.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this module the student should be able to:
Discuss and evaluate the development of Beckett’s aesthetic and style
Identify historical and political issues in Beckett’s work
Assess the validity of Beckett as a postcolonial Irish writer
Articulate the impact of World War Two on Beckett’s life and work
Analyse the Irish themes and images in Beckett’s texts
Articulate the symbolic weight of the body in pain in his texts

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Seminar (or Webinar)

12
Specified Learning Activities

48
Autonomous Student Learning

50
Total

110
 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations
Learning Recommendations:

Core lecture modules on Irish literature



 
Description % of Final Grade Timing
Essay: < Description >

75

 Coursework (End of Trimester)
Continuous Assessment: < Description >

25

 Coursework (End of Trimester)

Compensation

This module is not passable by compensation

Resit Opportunities

In-semester assessment

Remediation

Students who fail this module will need to repeat or resit the module depending on the availability of the module in the following semester. If you have failed, please contact the Academic Support Officer for information on how to remediate the module. If you are taking this module as an option or an elective, you may be able to substitute another module. Check with your Programme Office if this is possible.