The Richard Hoggart Centre for Comparative Cultural Studies 3: Identity, Internationalism and Language Learning on Screen: Foreign Language TV programmes in the UK Context

Summary of Cluster
These scholarships will inaugurate the Richard Hoggart Centre for Cultural Studies at the University of Hull. Richard Hoggart was a foundational figure in the discipline of cultural studies and spent over a decade of his early career teaching at the University of Hull. He wrote his most influential work, The Uses of Literacy, whilst teaching at Hull. The Richard Hoggart Centre for Comparative Studies aims to consolidate existing semi-formal collaborations between scholars at the University of Hull who are all engaged with the discipline of cultural studies. At its heart, cultural studies aims to examine cultural texts and forms as politically and socially embedded phenomena that can both inspire social justice and reinforce dominant ideologies. Cultural studies is a mixed-methods approach to the politics of culture, and incorporates elements of literary criticism, cultural theory, film studies, education studies, American Studies, cultural history and critical theory (among other disciplines). The successful candidates for these scholarships will be expected to play a central role in both the administration and intellectual life of the Hoggart Centre

Summary of PhD Project 3
Identity, Internationalism and Language Learning on Screen: Foreign Language TV programmes in the UK Context

A recent article in the Evening Standard posed the question ‘Is it a coincidence that just as governments are seeking to close their borders, television is opening them?’ (March 15 2017). Indeed, in post-Brexit Britain, television viewers have access to an ever-increasing number of foreign language programmes. And ‘with the boom in streaming services, a single TV drama can cross borders like never before. Yet still, telling local stories appears to be the secret to international appeal’ (ibid). But what is the relationship between the local, national, and transnational that is presented on screen? And how do these dramas influence viewers’ perceptions of the countries, nationalities and languages which are depicted on screen? This project analyses the way in which ideas of national identity and nationhood are interrogated through French and/or German and/or Italian television drama programmes when they are watched outside of their original national context. It will explore the mise-en-scène, plot and marketing employed, and then analyse their impact on viewers and their perceptions of languages and cultures. Near-native competence is required in at least one of the three language areas. Comparative projects are particularly welcome.

Essential Criteria
Applicants should have at least a 2.1 undergraduate degree in a relevant field – see the PhD scholarships above for further details. A 1st class undergraduate degree or Masters level qualification is desireable.

PhD students at the University of Hull follow modules for research and transferable skills development and gain a Masters level Certificate, or Diploma, in Research Training, in addition to their research degree.

Successful applicants will be informed of the award as soon as possible and by 2nd April 2018 at the latest.