Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

English

Recommended previous knowledge

It is recommended that EN-455 has been completed or is taken during the same semester.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course students have knowledge of

  • significant works of fantasy across genres and media
  • methods and techniques of literary/critical analysis
  • the historical breadth of fantasy and the fantastic imagination in the literary arts
  • relevant historical and cultural context for understanding the significance of selected primary works
  • how to produce scholarly writing about fantasy in the arts

Upon successful completion of the course, students can

  • utilize concepts and vocabulary associated with the analysis of fantasy literature
  • understand methods of textual analysis and close reading
  • identify social and historical developments that have impacted both popular and critical receptions of fantasy
  • demonstrate critical thinking in the evaluation of approaches and techniques in literary arts
  • develop independent critical arguments about the significance of fantasy in the arts

Contents

Fantasy is a tremendously popular mode of storytelling today. Although this great popular appeal is a modern development, fantasy has deep roots in literary history. It is the most ancient of literary modes, and it is practiced all over the world. This course will investigate modern and contemporary fantasy, but with an eye on its long history, and its global dimensions. We will explore fantastic modes of representation across genres and media: in short stories, poetry, drama, novels, graphic novels, and television.

Teaching and learning methods

Seminars. Active and regular participation is expected. The estimated workload is approximately 270 hours.

Examination requirements

An in-class presentation must be approved in order to be eligible to take the exam. Further work requirements will be provided at the start of the semester.

Examinations

Individual term paper. Specifications provided at the start of the term. Graded assessment.

Student evaluation

The person responsible for the course decides, in cooperation with student representative, the form of student evaluation and whether the course is to have a midway or end of course evaluation in accordance with the quality system for education, chapter 4.1.

Offered as a free-standing course

Yes, if there are places available

Admission Requirement if given as a free-standing course

Identical to the admissions requirements for the programme.

Admission for external candidates

No

Reduction of Credits

This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:

Course Reduction of Credits
EN-452 – The Fantastic Imagination. 10
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 10:06:13 AM