Course Resources Archive

This module is designed to develop and enhance the student’s skills in the craft of writing prose, with particular emphasis on the short story, and familiarises them with more advanced skills such as the use of the extended metaphor, irony, and innovative engagement with existing genres, including science fiction, fantasy, horror, historical writing, autobiography, counterfactual fiction, and satire. Students will reflect on the nature and variety of prose processes and genres, and will be introduced to the practical aspects of prose writing through discussion of literature with particular attention to craft; writing exercises; and peer critique exercises.

- History of the short story

- Technical elements of writing the short story

- Knowledge of contemporary short story writers

- Awareness of various genres

- Knowledge of theory and practice

- Structural understanding of the short story

A student passing this module should be able to:

1. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of, and an ability to analyse and evaluate, a range of theories related to the short story;

2. demonstrate ability to understand the various technical requirements of the short story form;

3. demonstrate understanding of the creative relationship between theory and practice;

4. demonstrate the ability to experiment and take creative risks;

5. convey an understanding of the history of the genre;

6. develop an understanding and appreciation of a number of contemporary short story writers.

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.