The Australian Imaginary

This subject is not offered in 2011.

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In order to be inhabited, Australia had first to be named, mapped, imagined and thereby invented. From this process of invention, a new poetics emerged enmeshed in a complex raft of inter-subjective and intercultural dialogue and conflict. Drawing on key Australian literary texts we will explore how succesive writers have engaged with the new - inter-racial, environmental, social and sexual dynamics of the emerging culture. Themes to explore include narratives of domicile and domicide, exile and incarceration, tropes of the unbound house, of a 'scribbling' nature, a haunted earth, and of broken mirrors.

Students who successfully complete this subject will:

• be familiar with key Australian literary texts and with central issues in current debates about Australian colonial and post-colonial history;
• have been introduced to key concepts in contemporary literary and critical theory;
• have developed an increased awareness of argumentative and analytical practices which can be used to develop their own writing.

One class paper of 1000 words 25% (due during the semester) and one essay of 3000 words 75% (due at the end of the semester). This subject has a minimum hurdle requirement of 75% attendance and regular participation in tutorials are required. Assessment submitted late without an approved extension will be penalised at 10% per day. In-class tasks missed without approval will not be marked. All pieces of written work must be submitted to pass this subject.

A subject reader will be available.

• Eucalyptus (Murray Bird)
• The Boat (Nam Lee)
• Bush Studies (B Baynton)
• Seven Poor Men of Sydney (C Stead)
• Remembering Babylon (D Malouf)
• A Fringe of Leaves (P White)
• The House of Breathings (Gail Jones)
• Plains of Promise (Alexis Wright)

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

• Bachelor of Biomedicine
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Environments
• Bachelor of Music
• Bachelor of Science
• Bachelor of Engineering

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

Students who successfully complete this subject will:

• be able to apply new research skills and critical methods to a field of inquiry;

• develop critical self-awareness and the capacity to shape and strengthen persuasive arguments;

• communicate arguments and ideas effectively and articulately, both in writing and to others.

Students who have completed 106-046 Australia and the Colonial Imaginary or 106-046/670-326 Wild Writing: The Australian Imginary are not eligible to enrol in this subject.