Literature, Discourse and Ideology

Description

The course examines different uses of the term “ideology” as well as other theoretical concepts, such as “discourse” , “social imaginary”, the “other”, etc., which are employed to explore the ways we form and experience our sense of identity and our relationships with others. At the same time, it involves the students in detailed readings of literary texts, in order to investigate how the language and form of both fiction and poetry mediates, reproduces and/or questions ideological assumptions.  

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the students’ should:

1. Understand that forms of behavior, generally considered common or “natural”, are in fact the result of complex cultural processes.

2. Be familiar with contemporary theories of “discourse” and “ideology”.

3. Be sensitised with respect to issues such as xenophobia and racism.

4. Be able to perceive not only overt but also implicit forms of ideology in literary texts.

5. Exercise the skill of developing arguments, both orally and in writing.

Assessment

Written exam at the end of the semester and wtitten essay that is also presented orally in class.

Teaching methods

Lectures and workshops

Course material available at:

https://eclass.uth.gr/courses/ECE_U_169/