British Literature 1980 - 2011 (Part 1)

The years 1980 to 2011 were ones which saw enormous

alterations in the political and social fabric of Britain, and we

will discuss how our authors and texts confronted the

themes and problems thrown up by these years, which

sought to redefine the nature of British identity in terms of

class, gender and sexuality.

Alongside these discussions, we will navigate several

defining literary theories which have evolved such as

postmodernism, deconstructionalism and the rise of gender

theory. These subjects will be approached by close readings

and practical analysis of our texts, rather than through dry

exegesis. We will assess how literary theories aim to

communicate rather than obfuscate communication.

Each text is different in its approach to subject, though

several will confront the question of how literature

addresses historical and societal changes. Others will

demonstrate the extravagance of the authors’ imaginations,

and a preparedness to invent new and alternative worlds in

fiction which reflect back on the world of contemporary

Britain. This will embrace considerations of class,

consumerism, gender and sexuality.

By the course’s conclusion, one will be aware of the richness

of modern British prose and its continuingly vital

contribution to global literature.