Overview

This module explores a wide selection of published and manuscript texts that demonstrate the breadth, continuities and dissimilarities of late medieval and early modern women’s devotional writing practices (both religious and secular). Graduate students will be introduced to the writing of anchorites, mystics, mothers and lovers, from across the social spectrum, who expressed their devotion in a variety of genres and for widely differing audiences. The material under discussion emerges in forms as varied as translation, lyric poetry, letters, early autobiographical writing, exegesis, polemic, prophecy and prayer. This module offers opportunities for students to develop and pursue highly innovative lines of research in the analytical comparison of devotional writing from pre- and post-Reformation England.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -50-59%A Pass (C) candidate’s work will show many of the following qualities:•A satisfactory level of knowledge, analysis and expression.•Some familiarity with, and understanding of, relevant theoretical issues.•Generally sound organisation of argument, with some critical ability.•Accurate expression.•Competent use of quotation and references. -good -60-69%A (B) candidate’s work reaching Merit will show many of the following qualities:•An advanced level of factual knowledge.•Significant [substantial] knowledge of relevant theories and types of analysis.•Some evidence of original thought.•The ability to organise and argue effectively, make balanced judgements, and demonstrate critical thought.•Fluent and accurate expression.•Competent use of quotation and references. -excellent -70% and aboveTypically (A), the work of a candidate reaching Distinction will show many of the following qualities:•Thorough knowledge and understanding of relevant theories and types of analysis.•Thorough knowledge of a range of sources and the capacity to engage these critically.•Introduction and discussion of original ideas.•Relevant, well-organised and sophisticated argument.•High ratio of analysis to exposition.•Maturity, clarity and cogency of expression.•Excellent handling of quotation and references.

Learning Outcomes

• Consider differing critical attitudes to these texts, and assess the contribution of relevant theories of gender, religion and literary history.

• Show an advanced awareness of the interrelationships of text, context, authorship, audience and textual transmission

• Understand, analyse and discuss the selected module texts and contextual materials.