Exploring Contemporary Fiction

About this course

The course examines contemporary fiction through a selection of novels and short stories, considering how writers develop themes, shape characters and use narrative form to affect readers. Discussion includes ideas about what makes fiction contemporary, as well as the relationship between genres, styles and contemporary concerns. Teaching combines tutor presentations, group discussion, small-group activities, close reading and analysis. Additional critical writing, audio clips and other materials are used to inform responses to the set texts, with learners sharing interpretations and ideas in an interactive class.

What you'll learn

• Discuss how contemporary fiction reflects and responds to contemporary concerns.
• Analyse themes and concerns in the course texts.
• Examine how form, genre and narrative techniques shape a reader’s experience.
• Compare different styles and voices across contemporary fiction.

Is this course right for you?

The course is open to all levels and does not require previous literature study. It is intended for people who enjoy discussing books, exchanging interpretations and listening to other views. Learners should expect to read the set texts between sessions and consider prompts or questions in advance.

• No previous literature study is required.
• Participation includes group discussion and small-group activities.
• Weekly reading and preparation outside class are part of the course.

Before you go

• Learners need to buy or borrow paperback copies of Maggie O’Farrell’s Hamnet, Tayari Jones’s An American Marriage and Susanna Clarke’s Piranesi.
• The tutor provides links to or copies of short stories and other class materials.