Module Specifications
Academic Year 2026 - 2027
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Description This module traces the developments of Irish writing from the early 20th century to the contemporary moment through a consideration of central texts of and writers from across this period. In doing so, it seeks to explore and question the term “Irish Literature”, as writers attempt to define and redefine the parameters of what it means to be Irish. There is a focus on fiction and poetry from a broad range of writers throughout the module, which follows a broadly chronological structure. Beginning with the work of W.B. Yeats and examining key writers from across the 20th century, the course interrogates writers’ desire to forge a distinctive Irish poetics. James Joyce’s Ulysses is studied as a seminal literary text, which also poses questions about Irish art. Additionally, the module deals with the push and pull between the past and present, the local and the global through the work of writers such as Elizabeth Bowen, Flann O’Brien, Seamus Heaney, Louis MacNeice and Eavan Boland. The second part of the course moves to consider writing from the 21st century, continuing exploration of the questions raised by the texts from the previous century. From John Banville’s explorations of the novel form to Doireann Ní Ghríofa’s engagement with the Irish language, Irish Writing becomes increasingly diverse. Contemporary Irish issues such as Direct provision, Mariage Equality and the changing climate are addressed in the final part of the course. LIT1033 Irish Writing plots a dynamic route through 20th and 21st century Irish literature, demonstrating its imbrication with both the past and the concerns of the world around. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Recognise key features of 20th and 21st century Irish writing. 2. Engage in close reading of primary texts of poetry and fiction. 3. Demonstrate understanding of the central preoccupations of Irish writing. 4. Compare and contrast texts across the module. 5. Explain developments in Irish literature in terms of form, content and genre from the 20th century to present day. 6. Critically evaluate Irish literary texts. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
James Joyce Patrick Kavanagh Mary Lavin Eilis Ni Dhuibhne Anne Enright Colum McCann George Moore Roddy Doyle W.B. Yeats Claire Keegan Paula Meehan Edna O’Brien John McGahern Flann O’Brien John Banville Elizabeth Bowen Seamus Heaney Ciaran Carson | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books:
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Other Resources None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||