Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

English.

Recommended previous knowledge

It is recommended that EN-455-1 has been completed or is taken during the same semester.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students can

  • Describe the cultural and historical context for religious change in the twentieth century and literature’s role in this process.
  • Analyze specific texts in light of this cultural and historical context.
  • Interpret aesthetic decisions taken by particular authors in terms of postsecular theory.

Contents

The twentieth century saw a significant fall in levels of religious affiliation and the novel, one of the century’s most important literary forms, is often considered a secular form. Against such a backdrop, this course explores the relationship between religious change and literary expression. Drawing on selected readings from postsecular theory, students consider how a variety of novels, films, plays, poems and short stories from the twentieth century through to the present have approached religious questions. In the process, the course endeavours to elucidate the richness and nuance of a range of secular attitudes to religion; to examine texts that offer new understandings of the supernatural; and to interrogate others that outline alternative forms of religion. Setting aside understandings of religion that see it as either a form of inert traditionalism or a matter of mere personal preference, this course seeks to understand our current age where religion, in various forms, is firmly enmeshed in public discourse.

Teaching and learning methods

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

Examination requirements

One mid-term oral presentation (5-10 minutes) must be approved.

Examinations

An individual two-week take home essay (circa 3000 words). Graded assessment.

Student evaluation

The study programme manager, in consultation with the student representative, decides the method of evaluation and whether the courses will have a midterm- or end of term evaluation, see also the Quality System, section 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.
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 6:48:16 PM