Overview

The course will begin by questioning what is meant by the term ‘myth’, we will explore a range of definitions in order to establish what types of narrative can be consider mythological. We will then proceed to discuss the various methods one can use to interpret myths, exploring approaches such the psychoanalytic approaches, functionalism, the myth and ritual school and the comparative method. Throughout this aspect of the course students will be given the opportunity to employ these theoretical approaches by applying them to a range of narratives from variety of different cultures and time periods. In doing this, students should be able to recognise the way mythology has shaped various civilizations, influencing how humanity has understood issues such as morality and death. Finally, we will explore the role of mythology is the modern world, analysing what role mythology plays in popular culture and questioning whether the increasing popularity in comic books and Harry Potter could reflect humanity's yearning for new mythologies.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -D- - D +. Submitted work is adequate and shows an acceptable level of competence as follows: •Generally accurate but with omissions and errors. •Assertions are made without clear supporting evidence or reasoning. •Has structure but is lacking in clarity and therefore relies on the reader to make links and assumptions. •Draws on a relatively narrow range of material.

-good -B- - B+. Submitted work is competent throughout and distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates: •Very good structure and logically developed arguments. • Draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student. • Assertions are backed by evidence and sound reasoning. • Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.

-excellent -A - - A*. Submitted work is of an outstanding quality and excellent in one or more of the following ways: •Has originality of exposition with the student’s own thinking being readily apparent. •Provides clear evidence of extensive and relevant independent study.  •Arguments are laid down with clarity and provide the reader with successive stages of consideration to reach conclusions.

-another level-Good C- - C +. Submitted work is competent throughout and occasionally distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates: • Good structure and logically developed arguments. • At least in parts draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student. • Assertions are, in the main, backed by evidence and sound reasoning. • Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.

Learning Outcomes

• • To analyse the historical, social and philosophical factors that led to the development of some of the major mythological narratives.

• • To analyse the role that mythology has played in establishing ethical norms in both ancient and contempoary socities.

• • To examine common themes found within ancient and contemporary mythology.