Modern and Contemporary Studies – (M.A.)

You take 120 credits of compulsory modules and a dissertation (60 credits). Four modules are structured around the broad themes of time and space. Within these modules you will begin by studying key issues in modernism and modernity, postmodernism and postmodernity. We consider the radical transformation of time and space by industrial modernity, and subsequently by a globalised postmodernity, and explore the relationship between socioeconomic forms and literary and cultural production.

You will also undertake more sustained, specialised study of specific texts (literature, film, popular culture). These texts are grounded in material that maintains a balance between canonical elements and less familiar material, between English, American and postcolonial writing, and between literature and film. The modules reflect the research specialisms of staff in the School and will give you the chance to develop your expertise on issues of contemporary relevance and to participate in live, exciting debates that will shape the development of these particular fields.

In recent years the following areas have been prominent aspects of the programme: the body, identity, and technology in cyberspace; London, literature and diaspora; film noir; violence and the postcolonial imagination; war, memory, and culture; avant-gardes; Los Angeles fictions.

In addition to these modules, you will also receive extensive training in research methods and how to develop research projects. All students write a 15,000-18,000 word dissertation on a subject of their choice emerging from the programme.