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2008/09 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

CLAS3850 Transforming Myth

20 creditsClass Size: 53

Module manager: Dr Ken Belcher
Email: K.Belcher@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2008/09

This module is approved as an Elective

Module summary

The module offers a wide-ranging overview of how ancient authors, Greek and Roman, use different myths, exploiting traditional elements and introducing variations to tradition. It develops a methodology for further analysis of classical texts and also provides a solid background for exploration of the use of myth by later authors. For further information, visit us at the Electives Fair or contact the Department of Classics, situated on the first floor of the Parkinson Building, south end (email: classics@leeds.ac.uk; website: www.leeds.ac.uk/classics/; telephone: 0113 343 3537).

Objectives

On completion of this module, students should be able to appreciate more fully the ways in which Roman authors use and manipulate myth as well as the literary effects of the ways the myths are presented. Particular emphasis will be placed upon tracing the development of the myths discussed in literature and examining and interpreting by way of comparison and contrast how different authors employ the same mythological material.

Syllabus

The lectures in this module will deal with selected myths (e.g. the Golden Age, Orpheus and Eurydice, etc.) and will trace, as far as is practical and possible, their development through various Greek sources before focusing on examples from Latin poetry and/or prose. There will be detailed examination of the effects of imitation and variation of existing literary models. In addition to examining specific myths more general themes will also be investigated.

Teaching methods

Delivery typeNumberLength hoursStudent hours
Lecture181.0018.00
Seminar41.004.00
Private study hours178.00
Total Contact hours22.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)200.00

Private study

68 hours - reading for lecture content (4 x 17)
16 hours - preparation for seminars
62 hours - preparation of essay
32 hours - revision for examination

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Student progress will be monitored by means of seminar discussions and a 2,000 word essay to be submitted in semester 1.

Methods of assessment


Coursework
Assessment typeNotes% of formal assessment
Essay2,000-2,500 words50.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)50.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated


Exams
Exam typeExam duration% of formal assessment
Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc)2 hr 50.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)50.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 13/03/2009

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