MRes Dissertation in Medieval Languages and Literatures

Code

ENGL4310

School

English

Level

4

Credits

120

Semesters

Summer UK

Summary

The dissertation is a major piece of original research of 25,000 words, on a medieval topic of the student’s choice. There is an enormous range of possible topics in the fields of medieval literature, language, names studies and interdisciplinary projects in which the School’s medievalist staff are world-leading researchers. Two supervisors will normally be appointed who will guide the student in selecting a topic, researching it and writing it up. There will be regular supervisions in which students will discuss their work and be given feedback on their submissions. 
Students will be supported in developing their research skills and writing by relevant courses provided by the Graduate School and the School of English. They will also play their part in the vibrant research student community in the School and will be invited to participate in voluntary activities such as Vikings and Anglo-Saxons for Schools (schools outreach) and Reading Groups for Old Norse and Old English. 

Target Students

Only available to MRes in Medieval Languages and Literatures; not available to any other students.

Classes

• One 1-hour tutorial each week for

The Supervisions will not be timetabled.

Assessment

• 100% Dissertation: One 25,000 word dissertation

Assessed by end of designated period

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

(a) Knowledge and understanding
The dissertation should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the following:

• A1 the genres and styles of medieval literatures and artefacts and their place in medieval cultures;
• A2 the cultural and historical background of texts and artefacts, including the social, religious and gender contexts;
• A3 the languages associated with texts;
• A5, A6 how interpretative models are constructed, their value and limitations

(b) Intellectual skills
Students will develop the ability to:

• B1 engage in close analysis of texts and artefacts through understanding their languages, styles and forms;
• B2 evaluate critical responses through a programme of research reading and through developing their own ideas and approaches; show a knowledge of recent advances within their field and in related areas;
• B3 deal with and assimilate complex texts and artefacts, interpretations and ideas through examination of evidence, applying this synthesis to specific questions; develop their own methodological approach to their research questions;
• B4 acquire substantial quantities of information, process and apply it effectively; show an ability to summarise, document, report and reflect on progress

(c) Professional practical skills
Students will develop the ability to:

• C1 articulate knowledge and understanding of their research field in an original and scholarly fashion;
• C2 analyse their material with an awareness of how it relates to the culture and audience of the original context, deploying appropriate linguistic and analytical skills;
• C3 write a detailed and scholarly argument, demonstrating awareness of the importance of originality, accuracy and scholarly referencing, and presenting this work in a timely fashion;
• C4 construct and communicate a sustained analysis of their material orally and in writing; justify the principles and methodologies used in their own research;
• C5 carry out detailed and exhaustive research and develop their own critical responses through evaluation.

(d) Transferable (key) skills
Students will develop the ability to:

• D1 work productively with supervisors and other researchers as appropriate;
• D2 communicate effectively in writing;
• D3 communicate effectively through presentation in a research environment;
• D4 organise and manage time efficiently, including giving proper attention to preparation, and in meeting deadlines;
• D5 make use of information from different sources and present their ideas in a clear and accurate fashion;
• D6 reflect upon their own progress, strengths and weaknesses.

Conveners

• Dr Joanna Martin
• Dr Martin Findell