In this seminar, we will critically examine representations of contemporary British masculinities in literature. Through various theoretical and literary perspectives, the selected texts engage with themes such as friendship, violence, and loneliness, while also addressing the intersection of masculinity and sociopolitical issues, including Brexit, racism and class.
We will employ feminist and gender studies frameworks to analyze contemporary discourses such as the so-called "male loneliness epidemic" and the "crisis of masculinity" debate, exploring how these concerns are reflected and negotiated in literary narratives.
Please note that this is a Blockseminar; all primary texts listed below must be read prior to the seminar, while secondary readings will be provided and discussed during the sessions.
Sally Rooney: Normal People (2019)
Caleb Azumah Nelson: Open Water (2021)
Roy Williams and Clint Dyer: Death of England: Michael (2020-) (This play is a trilogy, presenting different perspectives. It suffices to read Michael’s, originally published as Death of England)
Freddy McConnell: David Bowie (2021) (to be found on Olat) |
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