Studying at York
Alternative Queer Histories - ENG00164I
- Department: English and Related Literature
- Credit value: 20 credits
- Credit level: I
- Academic year of delivery: 2023-24
- See module specification for other years: 2024-25
Module summary
Who defines the queer canon? This module seeks a nationally and racially diverse queer literary canon through texts read in translation from Ancient Greek, Latin, French, Chinese, German, Japanese, Taiwanese, and Spanish. This module deliberately sidesteps more familiar canonical works in favour of marginal, obscure, or ‘strange’ texts in order to challenge concepts of canonicity and homonormativity. The module is also interested in confession and desire, age and identity, nationality and nationalism, embodiment and bodily change, and throughout asks how queerness is inflected by other identities. The module takes a broad definition of ‘queer’, encompassing works with homosexual/bisexual/queer and transgender themes and embracing ‘alternative’ queernesses, ranging through poetry, novels, and theory. It includes works from Ancient Greece, Qing Dynasty China, Showa Japan, and 1990s Taiwan, among other contexts.
We will read these texts alongside important theoretical works that address the concepts of history, time, and identity. These texts are variably celebratory and conflicted, joyful and tragic, but always individual and deeply expressive of queer narratives and identities across the world.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 2 2023-24 |
Module aims
This module aims to introduce students to alternative queer histories in translation across Europe and Asia, and to develop a practical knowledge of queer and transgender theory.
Module learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module, you should be able to:
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Demonstrate an informed understanding of and engagement with a range of with queer and transgender works in translation.
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Demonstrate an informed understanding of and engagement with a range of historical and national contexts, as well as queer theoretical approaches.
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Examine key debates and critical approaches, including the representation of queer identity, homonormativity, and the canon.
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Develop arguments and ideas which demonstrate a proficiency in critical thinking, research, and writing skills.
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Demonstrate an understanding of some of the key issues at stake in the act of translation and in the study of literature in translation.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 70 |
| Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 30 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 70 |
| Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 30 |
Module feedback
You will receive feedback on all assessed work within the University deadline, and will often receive it more quickly. The purpose of feedback is to inform your future work; it is designed to help you to improve your work, and the Department also offers you help in learning from your feedback. If you do not understand your feedback or want to talk about your ideas further you can discuss it with your tutor or your supervisor, during their Open Office Hours
For more information about the feedback you will receive for your work, see the department's Guide to Assessment
Indicative reading
Sappho and Catullus, selected poetry
Heldris de Cornuälle, Le Roman de Silence
Christopher Marlowe, Edward II
Catalina de Erauso, ‘autobiography’
Wu Zao, selected poetry
Robert Musil, The Confusions of Young Törless
Yukio Mishima, Confessions of a Mask
Qiu Miaojin, Notes of a Crocodile
Frieda Ekotto, Don't Whisper Too Much
Paul Preciado, Testo Junkie