Anthropology

Culture and Representation (Elective pathway)

Module code: L6075E
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Workshop
Assessment modes: Coursework

In this module, you focus on the anthropological master trope of 'culture' and on the political dimensions of representing culture or 'cultures'.

You consider how anthropological understandings of 'culture', as well as anthropologists' modes of analysing and representing it in anthropological work, developed over the 20th century, partially in conversation with other disciplines.

You also examine how 'culture' operates as a key idea in the public domain, used by politicians, community and human rights activists, artists, scientists, museum curators and others, in relation to a wide range of issues and debates when distinctions between 'ourselves' and 'others' are at stake.

Finally, you look at some activities within the cultural domain (such as music, dance, theatre, verbal artistry), which have a performative dimension. You consider how anthropologists have approached these activities to address questions about structure and agency, embodiment, experience, art and aesthetics, creativity, power and protest.

Module learning outcomes

• Knowledge of several key anthropological approaches to culture, representation and performance.
• Understanding of the social contexts and political dimensions of cultural creation and performance.
• Ability to critically assess intellectual arguments.
• Ability to compare and contrast texts in a sophisticated manner.