iTEL
Comparative literature is the study of literature from around the world, transcending the restrictions of national and linguistic boundaries. Traditionally, comparative study was based on literary movements, periods and lines of influence, as well as on genres, themes, myths, and legends. In recent years comparative literature has come to include the comparison of literature with other areas of human experience. Comparative literature offers students the opportunity to study a broad range of literary subjects from various cultures throughout the world. Courses are offered in European literature from ancient to contemporary times; in the literature of Asia, Africa, and Latin America; in folk literature, legend, fantasy, and science fiction; in literary theory; and in special topics such as travel literature, literature and existentialism, and Malaysian literature and film (especially P.Ramlee’s work). All reading is done in English translation. The comparative literature is used as preparation for the single subject (secondary school) teaching credential in English language.
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Course Synopsis: The course introduces students to creative oral and written communication in English through the study of stories and films. It focuses on helping students explore the language, narrative structure, cultural and historical significance of stories in various formats, as well as important literary aspects such as genre, theme and characterisation. The craft aspects of storytelling and filmmaking are also examined. Students are required to engage in written and spoken critical analysis of selected stories and films from a variety of perspectives, and to reflect on knowledge acquired during the process. For this latter purpose, students are asked to prepare a creative reflection video to record their personal responses to the lesson content. In addition, students are given the opportunity to exercise their creativity by producing a short story of their own on a given title. During the collaborative presentations, each group chooses a film to analyse and each member speaks on one aspect of the selected film, such as narrative structure or characterisation. By the end of the course, students will have enhanced their ability to critically analyse and produce creative works, and be able to effectively communicate their responses, both orally and in writing. |