English and drama
Extra-Terrestrial Cultures: Imagining Outer Space and its Alien Inhabitants
Module code: Q3242
Level 6
30 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Workshop
Assessment modes: Portfolio
Can we can better comprehend and think critically about our situation in the world by studying what we’ve imagined beyond it?
In this module, you’ll study representations of the cosmos and its inhabitants. We examine these from multi-disciplinary perspectives and across historical eras.
This will include:
- visual art
- science-fiction in film and literature
- archaeoastronomy and early modern cosmology
- linguistics
- history
- speculative architecture
- black studies.
We’ll also consider the changing representations of space before and after the Cold War space race.
Module learning outcomes
- To critically evaluate representations of extra-terrestrial imaginaries (including societies, cultures, and spaces) across multiple disciplines, including film, visual art, literature.
- To utilize the study of extra-terrestrial cultures in order to reflect upon and articulate human cultures, their ideologies, hopes, and fears.
- To critically evaluate the role of audiences and publics in the generation and dissemination of extra-terrestrial imaginaries.
- To analyze the relationship of scientific and technological innovation to changes in extra-terrestrial imaginaries.
- To develop skills of argumentation, articulation, composition, and presentation through individual and collaborative research methods and written assessment.