The sociology of criticism is presented as a theoretical framework for examining its different incarnations. These matters are examined particularly as they affect the level of specialisation desired in writing style. It is in this subject that students will be able to focus on developing an ability to read their own responses. This subject familiarises students with the different formats for criticism. The range includes the precise journalistic format, longer critical essay, media commentary, catalogue essay, online criticism and media release.
Attention is paid to writing style and ways of presenting the critical verdict in textual form.
The development of a sophisticated critical lexicon will be encouraged. Students will also be offered the opportunity to develop their media skills, with particular regard to oral commentary. Consideration will be given to the regime of critical practice, which includes maintaining contact with the field and other commentary, meeting deadlines and dealing with editors. This subject allows for a specialised study of a particular discipline of arts criticism. Students will be made aware of the issues particular to a specific domain of critical commentary.