This document provides an overview of Module B of an English Extension course focusing on texts and ways of thinking during the 19th century. The module examines how scientific, religious, philosophical, or economic paradigms influenced literature during a chosen time period. Elective 1 explores the relationship between the individual and society, addressing the individual's position and conflicts between self and social norms. Paradigms represent patterns of thinking that shape reality and are influenced by changing environments, which in turn impact an individual's worldview. The 19th century was a time of significant change as new scientific understandings challenged established authority and traditions around social hierarchy, gender roles, and morality.
Original Description:
Introduction to Elective 1 - The Individual and Society
Original Title
Introduction to Elective 1 - The Individual and Society
This document provides an overview of Module B of an English Extension course focusing on texts and ways of thinking during the 19th century. The module examines how scientific, religious, philosophical, or economic paradigms influenced literature during a chosen time period. Elective 1 explores the relationship between the individual and society, addressing the individual's position and conflicts between self and social norms. Paradigms represent patterns of thinking that shape reality and are influenced by changing environments, which in turn impact an individual's worldview. The 19th century was a time of significant change as new scientific understandings challenged established authority and traditions around social hierarchy, gender roles, and morality.
This document provides an overview of Module B of an English Extension course focusing on texts and ways of thinking during the 19th century. The module examines how scientific, religious, philosophical, or economic paradigms influenced literature during a chosen time period. Elective 1 explores the relationship between the individual and society, addressing the individual's position and conflicts between self and social norms. Paradigms represent patterns of thinking that shape reality and are influenced by changing environments, which in turn impact an individual's worldview. The 19th century was a time of significant change as new scientific understandings challenged established authority and traditions around social hierarchy, gender roles, and morality.
Module B: Texts and Ways of Thinking This module involves the study of texts which reflect a chosen time period. In doing so, we develop and understanding of how scientific, religious, philosophical or economic paradigms have formed, and how this has reflected the development of literature. Time period: 19 th century
Elective 1: The Individual and Society The individual suggests: Difference Autonomy (the act of self-governing) Independence Through this study, we achieve a greater understanding of: The individuals position within society Conflict between the individuals sense of self and social convention The individual as an agent for self-determination
Paradigms A paradigm is a way of thinking it is a thought PATTERN (implying it is repeated). The paradigm suggests: Perspective (or assumptions, concepts, values, practices) which constitutes how reality is meant to be interpreted. It can be a generally accepted view at a given time or it may prevail and transcend time. This view affects the individual in how they respond. These paradigms are subject to the influence of changing environments, which in turn affects the individuals interpretation of the world. For instance, by the beginning of the 19 th century, some certainties were being challenged, such as the rule of the monarchy or aristocracy.
The 19 th Century This was a time of change: Authority of the church was being challenged by new scientific understanding. The suffering of the lower classes was challenged by rising middle class of wealthy industrialists. These changes were driven by the increasing education and literacy, and more ideas were communicated to the people. Values of this time which were both prominent and challenged include: Patriarchal dominance o There was a focus on a secure, stable, family life. o The role of women: Inferiority of the female Association of the female in the domestic sphere Male dominance in all spheres of life Marriage as an economic arrangement Women were politically, socially, and economically dependent on men. A womans goal in life was to marry and become a mother. Traditional social hierarchy The basis of power depended on the ownership of land and on birth. o Aristocratic rule o Limited social mobility. o Reputation
Morality esp. with regards to finance o Moral implications of being free from debt. o Focus on financial success. o Concerns about being free of guilt.