In this module you will learn about how language models and theories can be applied to the analysis of creative genres such as novels, poetry, plays, and persuasive speeches. You will build on your theoretical knowledge of language and develop practical experience in the application of this knowledge to a range of creative texts. You will be given the opportunity for lots of hands-on, practical work, as a basis for developing analytic skills.

1. Debate the ‘poetic function’ of language, including theories of deviation and foregrounding in creative texts;
2. Analyse the forms and functions of rhetorical language, including the structures of metaphor;
3. Evaluate the role of language in the development of distinct genres;
4. Assess the role of the audience in constructing the meanings of texts;
5. Critically evaluate ideas, arguments and empirical research;
6. Sustain a critical argument relevant to the particular conventions of the genre.

The module will be delivered through a mix of large group and small group sessions, including, where relevant, asynchronous materials such as lecture recordings. Full details on the delivery mode of this module will be available on Learning Central at the start of the academic year – and may be, in part, determined by Welsh Government and Public Health Wales guidance.   

Discipline/module specific skills:

1. Analysis of creative texts from different historical periods using various linguistic models;
2. Identification and description of ‘poetic’ and rhetorical devices in texts;
3. Comparison of different types of text using a stylistic approach.

Traditional intellectual skills:

1. Analysis and synthesis of information;
2. Flexible thinking and the ability to make connections between different types of information;
3. Comparison of theoretical explanations and application of different methodologies to creative texts as data;
4. Development of a logical argument and exposition of a conclusion that can be defended as reasonable.

Indicative Syllabus:

The syllabus will include most of the following topics:

·       Overview of the discipline of stylistics and genre analysis

·       Rhetoric

·       Figurative language

·       Difference between literary and everyday language

·       Mind style 

·       Narrative point of view

·       Representation of speech and thought

·       Pragmatic stylistics

·       Language and realism

·       Sociolects and dialects in literary texts

·       Reader responses