This course offers a critical survey of the genre of detective fiction from its origins in the early nineteenth century to the present day. Using examples from British, American and Australian literature it discusses the evolution of this genre, its predominant types and its main formal characteristics. The course will study detective fiction as an attempt to come to terms with crime as a challenge to the modern social order.
Assessment
Two or more written assignments, which might include minor or major essays, tutorial papers, book reviews, online quiz, blogs, essay proposals, bibliographies or other similar exercises, totalling 1000-4500 words.