This is a core subject for two of the graduate writing programs and one which provides students with valuable practice-based and theoretical contexts for their own writing. Students research major developments in literary theory and examine in close detail a number of key texts from several genres that illuminate the use of theory for the practising writer. Students also research some of the major developments in western literature, such as realism, modernism and postmodernism, as well as the theories that underlie these developments, particularly in relation to contemporary writing. Students critically explore ideas on writing directly arising from their theoretical and other reading, both in classroom discussion and in their written work. Students also workshop their creative writing, which is expected to reflect aspects of writing and literary theory that has been explored in the subject.
