Literature 4 - Humour in Medieval Celtic Literature

There are a number of texts surviving from twelfth-century Ireland and Wales which are generally accepted as being ironic or parodic in intent, and are thus regarded as humorous compositions. This module will trace the earlier development of humour in medieval Celtic narrative, examining the use of subversive literary tropes ? particularly irony ? to undermine certain social or religious conventions. Students will explore a range of ironic and parodic narratives, and the relationship between humour and the more serious genre of satire will be considered. Students will explore the way that humour is used to subvert the so-called ?heroic ethos? and to express disapproval at cases of clerical immorality. This will lead to a consideration of some of the more extensive parodies and ironic narratives written in medieval Ireland and Wales, including Aislinge Meic Con Glinne and Culhwch ac Olwen.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of the module, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the forms of humour used in medieval narrative, such as irony, parody and subversion of audience expectation
- Demonstrate familiarity with a range of medieval Irish and Welsh texts which use humour as a narrative device.
- Development of analytical, close-reading and essay-writing skills

Teaching & Learning Methods:
- Lectures: 24 hours

Assessment:
- Continuous Assessment: 50%
- University scheduled written examination: 50%