Culture and Representation (L6075)
Culture and Representation
Module L6075
Module details for 2026/27.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 5
Module Outline
The module focuses on the concept of ‘culture’ and on the political dimensions of representing (other)
cultures. We consider how anthropological understandings of ‘culture,’ as well as anthropologists'
modes of analysing and representing it in ethnographic research, developed over the 20th century in
conversation with other disciplines.
We examine how ‘culture’ operates as an idea in the public domain and is used by politicians,
indigenous and disability activists, museum curators and others in relation to a wide range of issues
and debates when distinctions between ‘ourselves’ and ‘others’ are at stake, to address questions
about structure and agency, embodiment, experience, art and aesthetics, power and protest.
For anthropology students and non-anthropologists alike, this module provides an opportunity to
deepen their anthropological knowledge and understanding. It will also help students to develop their
analysis and critical reading skills and reflect on how previous experiences and understandings might
inform engagement with anthropology and culture, preparing students for the extended writing project
they undertake as part of finalist dissertation(s). Furthermore, by participating in the assessment,
students will be given the opportunity to improve their writing skills.
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate knowledge of anthropological and other disciplinary approaches for understanding how culture is created and represented.
Share a critical understanding of the social contexts and political dimensions of cultural creation and representation.
Demonstrate the ability to critically assess intellectual arguments.
Demonstrate the ability to reflect on one's positionality and learning.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 100.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Portfolio | T2 Week 11 | 75.00% |
| Report | T2 Week 7 | 25.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Workshop | 2 hours | 11111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr James McMurray
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/244445
Dr Stuart Cartland
Convenor
/profiles/460557
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