Sociology and Criminology

Criminological Classics

Module code: L3122
Level 4
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Portfolio

This module is based on four classic criminological research monographs and aims to provide you not only with an in-depth appreciation and understanding of these studies and their wider context, but also the skills necessary to critically analyse primary texts.

The monographs selected have been particularly influential within the discipline and would be widely recognised by criminologists as key studies. The books studied will be:

• The Jack Roller (Shaw, 1930)
• Society of Captives (Sykes, 1958)
• Hooligan: A History of Respectable Fears (Pearson, 1983)
• Criminal Women (Carlen, 1985).

(It should be noted that the specific texts may change in different years.)

You will read these monographs in their entirety, and  explore the historical and intellectual context of the texts' inception.

Module learning outcomes

• Good knowledge of the four chosen monographs and the ability to identify their research methodologies and theoretical approach.
• Describe and explain the relevance of the wider historical and intellectual context out of which the texts emerged.
• Summarise these texts' significance to, and influence on, criminology as a discipline.