2024/25 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
ENGL3396 Fictions of the End: Apocalypse and After
20 creditsClass Size: 26
School of English
Module manager: Nicholas Ray
Email: n.j.ray@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
This module is not approved as a discovery module
Module summary
We will examine a range of fictional texts, from the late nineteenth to the early twenty-first century, which imagine the end of the world as we know it. Etymologically 'apocalypse' means disclosure or revelation. We will explore what literary texts seek to reveal or uncover about the world as it is by imagining its destruction or degeneration in a time to come; about what it means to be human by imagining a future humanity deprived of the institutions, conventions, and even biological capabilities, that appear to define us; about the 'existence' that may remain after human life, or all life, has ended.Objectives
This module explores of literary texts from the last 100 years which imagine the coming of apocalypse or life/existence after it, as well as a range of important theoretical frameworks relevant to apocalyptic writing. Lectures introduce historical and contextual information and explain theoretical concepts. Seminars require in-depth discussion of primary texts, students being given specifics task/topics to prepare in advance.Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
1) analyse apocalyptic fiction with informed reference to the history, tropes and conventions of the genre.
2) critically examine how key texts in the genre engage with wider socio-historical preoccupations and anxieties.
3) apply a range of critical/theoretical concepts to the reading of literary fictions of apocalypse.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
4. Conduct independent research, gathering information from a range of sources, and engaging in good academic practice in referencing their sources.
5. Produce independent arguments demonstrating advanced proficiency in critical thinking and writing skills.
Syllabus
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Lecture | 5 | 1.00 | 5.00 |
| Seminar | 10 | 1.00 | 10.00 |
| Private study hours | 185.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 15.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200.00 | ||
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
The first assignment will occur mid-semester, and written feedback on their writing, their close reading skills and their use of theoretical concepts will be formative for the second assessment. All students will be invited to book into supplementary office hours (20-30 minute one-to-one meetings) to discuss their marked essay and their plans for the second assignment.Methods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| Essay | Close reading of a passage from the fiction, making use of a theoretical concept. | 30.00 |
| Essay | Thematic essay discussing one or more set texts, engaging also with secondary criticism. | 70.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100.00 | |
If your assessment cannot be resit in its original form (eg group presentation which must be resat through another mode of assessment eg essay), say so here.
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 22/05/2024
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