ENG4432 – Postmodernism in American fiction
Course description
Course content
This course attempts to explore the many ramifications of the complex concept of literary postmodernism, the way it is expressed by some of the most influential American authors during the period 1965 to 2001. Against the background of the five novels on the reading list, we will discuss central terms like “the death of Truth,” “the loss of Self,” “language as a construction of reality,” meta-fiction, and intertextuality. An attempt will also be made to show how some of the most important postmodern concepts are traceable in other areas of culture than literature during this period. The course will also deal with significant developments in the literary criticism of the period (e.g., post-structuralism and deconstructionism), but such theories will be explored as a part of the textual analyses rather than as ends in themselves.
Learning outcome
The course will try to give the students a reasonably sophisticated understanding of postmodernism as a literary term and cultural phenomenon in the United States during the period 1965-2001. It will also emphasize the many significant differences between the syllabus authors within the postmodernist framework. Additionally, the course aims to develop the students’ critical and analytical abilities in their meeting with central novels from our own time.
Admission
Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.
If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.
Prerequisites
Formal prerequisite knowledge
Admission to the master program in literature, LAP or other suitable master programs.
Overlapping courses
10 credits overlap with ENG4318 – Postmodernism in American Fiction (discontinued)
Teaching
Seminar, two hours per week for ten weeks. Regular attendance and active participation is required, e.g. in the form of one or more oral presentations.
Examination
A portfolio consisting of a seven-page essay and a two-hour written classroom exam.
All written papers must be accompanied by a declaration concerning cheating Obligatorisk erkl?ring vedr. fusk
Examination support material
English dictionary.
Language of examination
English.
Grading scale
Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.
Marks will be published on Studentweb no later than three weeks after the submission date/exam.
Explanations and appeals
Resit an examination
Special examination arrangements
Application form, deadline and requirements for special examination arrangements.
Evaluation
The course is subject to continuous evaluation. At regular intervals we also ask students to participate in a more comprehensive evaluation.