AustLit

This subject introduces students to different perspectives on the meanings of 'Australia' and 'Australianess' in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. It explores the way in which Australia, Australians and the country have been represented. Students explore these ideas from a combination of historical, literary, geographical and cultural perspectives. The subject asks how Australia and being Australian has been represented and understood at different times.

Extra Information:

Students will acquire the following information, and generic skills/competencies as a result of their participation in this subject: A commitment to continued and independent learning, intellectual development, critical analysis and creativity; a developing coherent knowledge of the field of Australian Studies; a developing self confidence in oral and written skills; effectively interact with other people on an individual basis and in groups to achieve a shared goal; developing research skills to undertake systematic scholarly research and other modes of investigation; information literacy.

Subject Objectives:

On successful completion of this subject students will be able to: identify some of the key cultural texts that have shaped debates about the meaning of Australia; demonstrate a range of skills that enable the critical examination of a wide range of media and genres (including historical and literary writings, film, maps, paintings, journalism and legal documents); utilise and critically appraise some basic theoretical concepts and terminology deployed in academic and public debates about Australian history, culture, society and politics; effectively present research findings in written form; demonstrate in tutorial discussion an appreciation and respect for cultural and intellectual diversity.