Global Literature and Postcolonialism (ENGL30006)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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Students in this subject study some of the more iconic works of colonial, postcolonial and diasporic writing from the late-19 th century to the present. They pay attention to the writers’ forms and styles and to the way they address themes such as civilization, slavery, cultural encounter, and interracial conflict and desire while also learning about theoretical concepts such as Degeneration, Orientalism, nationalism, transnationalism, cosmopolitanism, and globalisation. Finally, they investigate the ways writers have used the space of literature to critically comment and reflect on some of the more important social and cultural problems facing ex-colonial and metropolitan societies today.

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should have:



  • a deeper understanding of the importance of textual traditions in shaping responses to other places, peoples, culture;
  • a knowledge and understanding of the social, political and cultural forces that have informed and shaped colonial, postcolonial and diasporic writing since the late-19 th century;
  • develop a knowledge and appreciation of the subject matter, styles and narrative conventions used by colonial, postcolonial and diasporic writers, and how these writers have used the space of literature to comment on historical and contemporary social and moral issues; and
  • gain and overview of key writers of postcolonial theory and their most significant concepts and critical insights.

Generic skills

On successful completion of this subject, students should gain the following generic skills:

  • the ability to apply new research skills and critical methods to a field of inquiry;
  • develop critical self-awareness and shape the capacity to persuasive arguments; and
  • the ability to communicate arguments and ideas effectively and articulately, both in writing and to others.

Last updated: 14 March 2025