Cultures, Histories, Literatures

On this degree you explore the complexity of the modern world through the study of cultural, historical and literary works. Drawing on methods from cultural and social history, literary studies and critical theory, the degree studies specific representations, memories and lives in historical and cultural contexts. You will consider conflict between dominant and subordinate groups, learn how contested memories shape contemporary identities, and consider the role of literary works in challenging dominant ideas.

Course structure

A critical and independent attitude is developed through small group teaching, individual tutorials, lectures and project work. Your academic work is supported by a programme of workshops to develop the academic and independent research skills necessary for success, and an ethos of collaboration and support. You will acquire specialist knowledge of your chosen area of work, drawing on cultural, historical and literary works.

Areas of study

In year 1 you are taught the political, historical, cultural and philosophical skills in lectures, in small seminar groups, and in personal tutorials.

In year 2 Critical Traditions deepens your knowledge of the historical, cultural and theoretical origins of the present. You will question dominant representations of the West, challenge established truths, and examine the enlightenment, feminism, postmodernism and Marxism. You will also choose an option to follow for the rest of your degree from:

- Fictions in History examines narratives of modern life and identity in imaginative fiction, including sensation novels, horror stories, and the literary works of realism, modernism and postmodernism.

- 'Race', Nation and Gender addresses the cultural representation of national and personal identities. You will learn how 'race', gender and class have always been contested in British life.

- Cultural Memory explores how narratives, stories, novels, films and other forms of cultural representation produce a collective sense of 'our past' for a nation, family or social group.

In the final year you undertake a special study, which completes your option work, and a research project. The project is a key part of your degree. Here all your skills, knowledge, and research come together. You develop your own critical response to a chosen topic, and challenge received opinions in a persuasive extended argument.

Career and progression opportunities

You will develop intellectual skills that you can transfer to employment or further study. Students have taken up careers in the public sector, the arts, teaching, the caring professions, journalism, management and personnel, as well as vocational training, postgraduate study and research.

Mode of Attendance: Full-time