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Trinity College Dublin

Textual & Visual Studies

This course explores the relationship between textual and visual forms of apprehension and expression in the modern world and their impact on European culture post-1900. The focus of the core module is on the graphic arts (poster, postage stamp, typography), photography and cinema, and on contemporary digital-based media. Various theoretical approaches will be explored in relation to the word/image problematic which will be situated in a number of European cultural traditions. Course options focus on specific media (photography, cinema) or themes (the city, avant-gardes).

The aim of the course is to bring students to a high level of theoretical and practical awareness of the text-image relation in cultural expression, equip them to analyse and evaluate the various forms text/image interaction takes, and to provide them with a training that will enrich their practice in other areas of study or professional engagement.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally have a first or upper second class degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate subject. A reading knowledge of a language other than English is normally required. In addition, a good working knowledge of English is essential. Please feel free to discuss your academic background and qualifications with the Course Directors.

Duration

1 year full-time.

Further enquiries

Course Director: Dr Justin Doherty -
Course Email: jdoherty@tcd.ie

Subjects taught

The course consists of one core module stretching over two semesters and four one-semester modules (from a choice of 5 or 6). The first core module focuses on Word/Image relations in graphic design, ranging from posters and postage stamps to typography and logotype.

The second core semester focus on word/image relations in cinema and the digital media. The one-term options, two of which are followed each semester, and which may change from year to year, include Theory and Practice of Digital Humanities, Figuring European National Identities, East European Cinema, The Russian avant-garde, and Postmodernity in East and Central Europe. A dissertation on a subject of the student's choice is prepared over the summer months.