Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

English. The language of instruction is English, but hand-ins and project work may also be done in Norwegian.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course the students will

  • develop an understanding of the artistic expressions related to Beat culture
  • be able to account for the expression "Beat", the changes it has been through and the aesthetical parameters that have influenced these changes
  • dicuss and analyze artistic expression in terms of these aesthetic models

Contents

Beat Culture is an introduction to a radical, experimental tradition in art and literature in post WW2 America. These forms of artistic expression will be studied in an aesthetic-cultural framework that takes into account the contemporary social conditions as well as its historical roots in European, American, and non-Western culture. We will emphasize ideas that are similar or run parallel in radical and avant-garde literature and art.

Teaching and learning methods

The course includes literature and art. Instruction is in the form of lectures, seminars, workshops and excursions. The instruction combines theoretical understanding with hands-on practice, however literary or artistic abilities are not a prerequisite for taking this course. 80% compulsory attendance at seminars, workshops and excursions. The workload is estimated to 270 hours.

Examination requirements

Students must have attended obligatory seminar groups, and the mid-term essay assignments must be approved.Further information will be published in Canvas when the semester starts.

Examinations

Final assessment comprises a portfolio of two assignments, one in the discipline Literature and one in the disiplin Art, and a final examination. The final examination may be either an artistic or a theoretical project. Furthe information will be given when the semester starts. The two parts each count 50% towards the final grade. Both parts must be assessed as a Pass. Graded assessment.
Examination is offered once a year in the semester in which the course is taught. Re-sit exams are not offered during semesters when the course is not scheduled. In line with regulations for studies and exams at the University of Agder § 26. d.

Student evaluation

The person responsible for the course, 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. Subject to avalibility or capacity.

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
TFL111 – Beat Culture: Literature, Music and Art. 10
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 2:15:00 PM