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  3. The Australian Imaginary

The Australian Imaginary (ENGL20009)

Undergraduate level 2Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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Literature has always played a central role in the definition a nation’s self-image and the formation of a national imaginary. This subject offers a broad historical sweep of Australian literature over the last 150 years to examine the different faces and facets of Australian life. It introduces students to competing narratives about the Australian nation, explores the complex entanglement of Indigenous and migrant histories in this country, and reflects on the relationship between colonial and modern Australia. Reading across a range of literary forms – short story, novel, poetry, play and graphic fiction – students will discover how literature helps us understand the forces that have shaped contemporary Australia today.

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and understanding of representative examples of Australian literature
  • Articulate the relationship between selected Australian literary works and the social, historical and cultural contexts that produced them
  • Apply high-level analysis, conceptual sophistication and critical thinking to the study of Australia literature and the debates it has provoked
  • Contribute to the understanding of Australian literature in ways that engage the interests of the discipline of literary studies
  • Communicate effectively an understanding of Australian literature and its contexts in both written and oral formats
  • Have gained an understanding of how to act as critically informed participants within a community of literature scholars, as citizens and in the work force at large.

Generic skills

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

  • 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.

Last updated: 15 January 2025