Unit information: The Legacy of Classical Literature in 2013/14

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Unit name The Legacy of Classical Literature
Unit code CLAS22364
Credit points 20
Level of study I/5
Teaching block(s) Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director Dr. Lampe
Open unit status Not open
Pre-requisites

None
Co-requisites

None
School/department Department of Classics & Ancient History
Faculty Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

This aim of this unit is to consider the continuing life of classical texts: the ways in which they have been read and interpreted in later centuries, set up as models and drawn upon by later writers as authorities, inspirations and influences. We shall be tracing the changing values placed on 'classics' and the classical, the changing popularity of different ancient authors, and the changing dynamics of their reception - including the moments when classics come to be seen as an impediment to creativity or as a problem. We shall also be exploring different theories and approaches to the study of classical texts and their afterlife, including reception theory, post-colonialism and feminism. Post-classical authors covered may include Chaucer, Dante, Milton, Shakespeare, Racine, Goethe, Nietzsche, Derek Walcott, Tony Harrison, or Charles Mee.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students should:

  1. Have gained knowledge of a wide range of texts and/or images revealing the legacy of classical literature in later periods.
  2. Have developed an advanced understanding of the theoretical issues involved in

studying the reception and legacy of the classical world in later times.

  1. Be able to use the knowledge acquired in lectures and through their own researches to construct coherent, relevant and persuasive arguments on different aspects of the subject.
  2. Have had an opportunity to develop their skills in oral and written communication

appropriate to level I, in small groups and general discussion, and in an essay and a written exam.

Assessment Information

1 x essay of c. 2,500 words (50%) and 1 x 90 minute exam (50%). Both elements will assess ILOs (1) (2) (3) and (4). The coursework essay in particular will offer students the opportunity to demonstrate ILO (3).

Reading and References

  • Bloom, Harold. 1997. The Anxiety of Influence: A Theory of Poetry. 2nd ed. New York & Oxford.
  • Hinds, Stephen. 1998. Allusion and Intertext: Models of Appropriation in Roman

Poetry. Cambridge.

  • Martindale, Charles. 1993. Redeeming the Text: Latin Poetry and the Hermeneutics of Reception. Cambridge.
  • Steiner, George. 1998. After Babel: Aspects of language & translation. 3rd ed. Oxford.

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