AustLit

In this unit we focus on contemporary Aboriginal life in all its variety, but also look at the relationship between the pre-colonial past and the post-colonial present in the forging of Aboriginal identities. Students gain an understanding of features of Aboriginal life which to an extent predate the European settlement of Australia, such as foraging economies, systems of kinship and marriage, and the culture of 'the Dreaming'. We also look at the impact of colonisation and how Aboriginal economy, society and culture have been transformed through relationships with non-indigenous Australians. In particular, we consider how Aboriginal people have become increasingly conscious of themselves as a single people defined as an indigenous minority in a settler state. This unit would also suit students undertaking an Australian Studies, Development Studies or Aboriginal Studies major, who, subject to approval, may enrol without the standard prerequisites.