2006/07 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

SLAV3021 Leo Tolstoy 2: Family Happiness in the Works of Tolstoy

10 creditsClass Size: 20

Module manager: Dr Sarah Hudspith

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2006/07

This module is approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module focuses on the development in Tolstoy's views on the family and sexual relations, by examining three works from different periods of his life. The centrepiece of the module is the classic novel Anna Karenina, which will be studied in depth. This is to be contrasted with the earlier novella, Happy Ever After, and with the later work The Kreutzer Sonata. Background information on other relevant works by Tolstoy and on the historical context will be provided in lectures; seminar discussions will draw out the key themes and develop critical thinking. The module will include a workshop on the use of secondary literature. Assessment will be by two 1500 word essays.Syllabus: Set texts as above. Texts will be studied in English.Teaching will take the form of seminars.Assessment comprises two assessed course work essays of approximately 1,500 words, the first to be handed in by the end of week 7 and the second by the end of week 12.

Objectives

On completion of this module, students should be able to:
- demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the works of Leo Tolstoy;
- engage with and critically analyse Tolstoy's views on the family and sexual relationships, and account for the changes in these views over his lifetime;
- demonstrate an acquaintance with Tolstoy scholarship through further reading;
- demonstrate sound analytical and discursive skills both orally and in writing.

Syllabus

This module focuses on the development in Tolstoy's views on the family and sexual relations, by examining three works from different periods of his life. The centrepiece of the module is the classic novel Anna Karenina, which will be studied in depth. This is to be contrasted with the earlier novella, Happy Ever After, and with the later work The Kreutzer Sonata. Background information on other relevant works by Tolstoy and on the historical context will be provided in lectures; seminar discussions will draw out the key themes and develop critical thinking. The module will include a workshop on the use of secondary literature. Assessment will be by two 1500 word essays.

Teaching methods

Seminars

Methods of assessment

Two essays of approximately 1500 words each.

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 28/03/2007

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