Writing the Unconscious

Subject CWRI90006 (2010)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2010.

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 9 (Graduate/Postgraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2010:

Semester 1, Parkville - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable

On campus

Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: 2
Total Time Commitment: 120
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements: None

Coordinator

Dr Elizabeth Macfarlane

Contact

Elizabeth MacFarlane
ecm@unimelb.edu.au

Subject Overview:

This subject explores the implications of theories of the self and the unconscious for contemporary writers. Work from the late 19th Century, the Modernist period and contemporary Postmodern literature will be surveyed along with theoretical writing on the nexus between issues of identity and creative practice. Questions of gender, ethnicity, sexuality and power will be examined through the writings of Foucault, Freud, Cixous, Kristeva and other writers. The discovery and elaboration of ideas about the unconscious and its role in the modern construction of the artist and in the creative process for artists and writers will be examined through student presentations, seminars and lectures.
Objectives: Students who complete this subject will:
  • be able to demonstrate an advanced understanding of the changing knowledge base in the area of theorising the self;
  • be able to demonstrate a capacity to articulate their knowledge and understanding in oral and written presentations;and
  • be able to show an advanced understanding of the international context for their own creative work.
Assessment: A tutorial discussion paper of no more than 500 words 20% (due in individually assigned weeks), creative writing responding to set readings - 4000 words or equivalent and a 500 word reflective statement 70% (final draft due end of semester). Regular attendance, including participation in exercises and workshopping is expected 10%.
Prescribed Texts:

A subject reader will be available.
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills: Students who successfully complete this subject will:
  • be able to read complex texts;
  • be able to demonstrate expertise in combining writing and theory;
  • be able to demonstrate the ability to experiment with narrative structure;
  • be able to demonstrate critical reading and analysis;
  • develop presentation skills; and
  • be able to apply theory to practice.
Related Course(s): Master of Creative Writing (Coursework and Minor Thesis)
Master of Creative Writing, Publishing and Editing
Master of Publishing and Communications

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