This module explores the dynamics of cultural industry, looking at innovation in terms of artistic production and circulation in the face of challenging sociohistorical circumstances in a globalised work. In its analysis of pressures that historical, political, economic, social and environmental upheavals exert on artistic creativity, the module will steer away from approaches that privilege an analysis of suffering to privilege artistic entrepreneurism and agency along with its resulting innovative solutions conceived within transnational spaces.
Departing from situated examples from the pluricontinental space of the Portuguese-speaking world, the module will engage with challenging contexts such as, invasions, dictatorships, economic and financial crisis, pandemics and the climate emergency to understand how various kinds of cultural artefacts register societal resilience, inventiveness, creativity and optimism. Drawing from domains such as monuments, museums, literature, music, drama, and film, the module provides insights into the role of adversity in culture, and of the past in an ever-changing present.
All primary and secondary sources, as well as lecture slides and classes, are in English.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Display a sound knowledge of theoretical formulations discussed in the module.
Critically analyse artefacts that engage with the dynamics of cultural industries.
Demonstrate an understanding of contemporary debates about complex artistic matters.
Articulate complex ideas through academic writing.
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment:
2000-word essay in English or Portuguese (75%) 5-minute oral presentation in English or Portuguese (25%)
