General feedback on overall performance in the mid-term examination, identifying recurring issues and key areas for improvement. 

Assessment criteria used in evaluating the mid-term:  

  1. Critical thinking and originality – 30%   

  2. Contextual knowledge – 20%   

  3. Argumentation and structure – 25%   

  4. Engagement with source material/course materials – 15%   

  5. Language and style – 10% 

Grading structure and correction key: 

I. Riz Ahmed’s “Airports and Auditions” 

  - Interpretation of the “necklace of labels” metaphor   

  - Analysis of identity, discrimination, and the representation of ethnic minorities in the UK   

  - Connections with broader debates on cultural restitution (e.g., the Koh-i-Noor diamond) 

 II. The Secret of England's Greatness 

  - Historical analysis of a Victorian painting   

  - Discussion of Victorian ideologies including imperial power, national identity, religious justification for colonialism, and gender dynamics   

  - Visual and contextual analysis reflecting cultural and historical frameworks 

Expectations for analytical and critical writing, with emphasis on academic skills such as argument construction, evidence integration, and depth of engagement with course materials. 

Forthcoming tasks and key dates: 

- 24 and 29 April: In-class reading verification exercises and discussion of thematic and structural elements of Heart of Darkness (Pass/Fail assessment, included in Attendance and participation [10%]) 

- 29 April, 18:45–20:45 (room C251.A):   

A recovery test will be offered to students wishing to improve their mid-term exam performance. Eligibility is conditional on a minimum of 75% attendance. This optional assessment provides a second opportunity to demonstrate mastery of course content. The higher of the two marks will be considered, contributing 50% to the final grade, in line with the course’s assessment items.   

- 08-27 May: Group presentations / student-led discussions on Antoinette Burton’s The ABCs of Victoria’s Empire (20% of the final grade) 

- 29 May: Submission of individual projects via email (20% of the final grade) 

Lecture by María Ruiz (UCordoba): female vampires in Gothic literature (Erasmus+ mobility).

The role of visual culture in historical memory. Contested heritage: The case of museums. Analysing Thomas Jones Barker’s painting The Secret of England’s Greatness.  

Overview of course contents. Guidelines for the test. 

Readings: 

Procter, Alice. The Whole Picture. Nd: Cassell (Introduction and ch. 10: “England’s Greatness”) 

Visual texts:  

Thomas Jones Barker, The Secret of England’s Greatness, c.1862–3