MSTU2008 SECOND ASSESSMENT (LONG ESSAY) TOPICS

MSTU2008 SECOND ASSESSMENT (LONG ESSAY) TOPICS

LENGTH: 2000-2500 WORDS

WEIGHTING: 60%

DEADLINE: 4PM MONDAY 13TH JUNE 2022

SUBMIT VIA TURNITIN

Task Description:

This research essay is designed to get you to look in depth at the one of the topics raised in the second half of the course.

Criteria & Marking:

Selection/relevance of chosen examples, as well assensitivity and insightof the analysis of them

Depth and sophistication of critical engagement with the selected topic, including relevant secondary sources and key concepts

The strength, clarity, organisation andsophistication of your argument, both in the introductory statement, subsequent development, and in the conclusion

The quality of written expression, referencing and presentation (including grammar, spelling, punctuation, and referencing)

Essay Guide

This assessment gives you the opportunity to explore the topics, issues and television shows that we addressed from week 5 to the end of the course. Probably the most challenging aspect of the task is choosing the right television show(s) to work on in the essay. Depending on the topic you can choose one or more, and it is a good idea to check with me if you are unsure as to whether you are taking on too much. Often it is useful to choose 1- 2 moments, scenes or themes from the show and evolve your argument through your description and analysis of them. You may if you wish develop your own essay title in consultation with me. I am happy to look at outlines. This is a long research essay so you are expected to demonstrate your understanding of secondary reading (see criteria above); as a guide make sure you have at least 3-4 readings referenced in the essay. You can choose any referencing/citation system you like as long as you use it consistently throughout the essay (I prefer Chicago but choose the one you are most comfortable/familiar with). Any questions feel free to ask me for further guidance. Please remember:

To type out the topic you are answering at the start of your essay

To write all titles (books, films, television shows) in italics

That the essay length is between 2000-2500 words +/- 10%

Choose ONE topic from the following:

1. Using detailed examples explore the meaning and significance of the female gaze in contemporary television fiction.

2. In making original content, streaming services borrow their textual and narrative organisation from cinema rather than traditional forms of television. Discuss.

3. Explore the impact of streaming on the nature of narrative organisation, character development and mise-en-scene in contemporary television fiction.

4. To what extent has television streaming transformed the figuring of femininity in contemporary television?

5. Explore the ways in which the representation of women can be understood as an aspect of televisions complexity.

6. Examine the impact and significance of the Marvel Cinematic Universe on recent television fiction.

7. To what extent does social media contribute to the aesthetic and social experience of cinematic forms of television?

8. Using examples, discuss the notion that it is the industrial acknowledgement and responsiveness to the knowledge, commitment and solidarity of fans that accounts for the success of contemporary television.

9. To what extent is fandom an engine of, or stimulus for, creativity in television?

10. The fan is merely a construction of academic and industry discourses rather than an accurate representation of the diversity of forms of passionate engagement with television. Discuss.

11. Examine the history and significance of reality television with reference to at least TWO examples.

12. To what extent does reality television owe a debt to earlier forms of documentary?

13. Using examples examine the claim that reality television has recruited the narrative devices and character forms of fictional television rather than invented its own aesthetic. 14. To what extent have televisions documentary forms been assimilated within sensationalist (tabloid) interests?

15. Discuss the relationship between the depiction of crime on television and the relevant discursive contexts that inform our understanding of it. Use examples in your answer.

16. How important is the representation of sociality as an aspect of television comedy?

17. Choose ONE animated television show and investigate its significance as an example of television comedy.

18. Using ONE or TWO shows, explore the ways in which television fiction engages with contemporary capitalism.

19. Televisions nature is to monitor the growing un-inhabitability of the world. Discuss.

20. To what extent are shows like Twin Peaks: The Return, Too Old to Die Young and True Detective either visionary and prophetic or narcissistic and self-indulgent?

21. Discuss the claim that despite recent changes in technology and forms of reception television remains remarkably similar in terms of its forms, genres and interests as it was 50 years ago.