Description
In this advanced comparative module, we will explore the relationship between film and philosophy. We will ask: how can philosophy shape our understanding of cinema, and how can cinema influence our reading of philosophy? Can cinema be philosophy? Can reading philosophy be an aesthetic experience? And how have philosophy and cinema influenced one another historically?ÌýÌý
We will explore these questions through select cinematic case studies and philosophical readings. Topics will vary from year to year, but may include: film, phenomenology and embodiment; film and political philosophy; film and the philosophy of empathy; film, ethics and theories of recognition; film and posthumanism; and exchanges between philosophers and filmmakers (for example, between Claire Denis and Jean-Luc Nancy). The module will also provide an introduction to how the relationship between film and philosophy has been conceived in existing scholarship.Ìý
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Teaching Delivery Ìý
There will be a two-hour weekly class, comprising elements of tutor-led class lecture with seminar-style discussion, varying according to the nature of the weekly topic. The module will have a dedicated Moodle page with resources and information about required primary viewing and secondary reading.Ìý
By the end of the module, students will be able to demonstrate:Ìý
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Advanced understanding of ‘Film Philosophy’ as an analytical approachÌý
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Advanced close visual and audio-visual analysis skillsÌýÌý
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A strong understanding of how to marshal philosophy to analyse filmic works and to draw on film to inform their understanding of philosophyÌý
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An ability to formulate a research question relevant to film-philosophical inquiry and to engage in related film-philosophical research.Ìý
Please note: this module description is accurate at the time of publication. Amendments may be made prior to the start of the academic year. Ìý
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.
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