PhD in Arts & Humanities in United Kingdom

A linguistic and discursive analysis of the humour in Arabic novels written in vernacular: examples of e-Arabic genre

This research examines the linguistic features of humor and satire within a contemporary literary genre known as e-Arabic literature. It explores how the use of Information Technology and Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) has influenced Arabic culture and its literary landscape, specifically focusing on the emergence of this new genre. The study positions e-Arabic literature as a subfield of humor within Arabic literature, contributing to theories of humor and highlighting e-Arabic as a new variety of Arabic within the broader context of CMC. The research investigates how Arabic writers use satire and humor to raise awareness of social and political issues in their cultures. It also analyzes the specific use of rhetorical questions, interrogative phrases, and punctuation in crafting unique and creative humorous and satirical writing styles. Furthermore, the research delves into the factors contributing to the popularity of political satire in e-Arabic literature and its potential impact on societal change. Data is drawn from novels originating from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Syria, written in various Arabic vernacular dialects. The findings indicate a significant use of satirical and humorous discourse in these vernacular novels, often linked to critiques of religious institutions and political systems. The study identifies linguistic tactics like juxtaposition, contradiction, and implausibility as key devices employed by writers to generate humor and construct satirical criticism.

African Literature in the Digital Age: Class and Sexual Politics in New Writing from Nigeria and Kenya

This PhD thesis examines the evolving landscape of African literature published in the digital sphere. It focuses on new writing from Nigeria and Kenya, exploring how themes of class and sexual politics are represented by contemporary authors. The research analyzes the unique characteristics of digital literary production and contrasts the perspectives and agendas of this new generation of writers with those of previous generations. The study aims to bridge a gap in existing literary scholarship by providing a substantive analysis of the digital experience within African literature, considering its impact on both psychic and material realities.

Arts

Arts

The School of Arts at Oxford Brookes University offers a dynamic and thriving research environment for MPhil, PhD, PhD by Published Work, and MA by Research students. We integrate both text-based and practice-based approaches, supported by world-leading academics across various subject areas. We encourage research proposals that align with our diverse research groups and staff interests, spanning Fine Art, Film Studies, Musicology, Publishing, Media, and Digital Arts, among others. The program benefits from extensive global university links and strong industry collaborations, providing opportunities for collaborative research, exchanges, and overseas study. The MA by Research also offers unique opportunities with external partners and university research projects.

Arts by Published Work

Black Studies PhD

The PhD in Black Studies at the University of Nottingham is dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of the history, literature, and culture of Black peoples, focusing on those of African and Caribbean descent from across the continent and its diaspora, including individuals of mixed Black heritage. This unique program in Europe employs critical reflection and interdisciplinary methods to explore the roles, lives, cultures, politics, representations, activism, art, histories, and movements of people of African descent. It is particularly relevant in today's context, as academic institutions and communities globally engage with the experiences and influence of the Black diaspora. The program is closely linked with the Centre for Black Studies, the Institute for the Study of Slavery (ISOS), and the Rights Lab, offering students opportunities to broaden their research networks within and beyond the university. While housed in the School of Languages, Cultures, and Area Studies, which has a strong history in African diaspora and African American studies, the PhD welcomes comparative research proposals that transcend disciplines and national borders. The program is especially interested in proposals related to music (particularly contemporary genres and musical theatre), American history, literature, and politics, but remains open to all research aligned with the Arts and Humanities.

Catholicism and anti-Catholicism in Cheshire during the Long Reformation, c.1560 – c.1720

This doctoral thesis examines the presence and practice of Catholicism in Cheshire, England, during the period known as the Long Reformation, roughly from 1560 to 1720. Catholicism was a prohibited minority faith during this era, and its practice could lead to significant penalties. While it remained outlawed for another century, the 1720s marked a shift in the intensity of anti-Catholic persecution, making it a logical endpoint for this study. The research challenges previous historical understandings by demonstrating the limited impact of anti-Catholic measures in Cheshire. It shows that only a small fraction of Catholics faced penalties, initially through imprisonment in the Elizabethan era and later through property seizure. The study also highlights the diverse forms of Catholicism beyond the traditional gentry-led recusant model, including 'church papist' and plebeian-led groups, suggesting a stronger and more varied Catholic presence in the county than previously acknowledged. Furthermore, the thesis differentiates the level of religious coexistence within the broader community. It finds limited integration in matters of faith and family life, but greater integration in everyday secular activities. The study also explores the engagement of Cheshire Catholics with major national events of the period, such as the Civil War, the Popish Plot, and Jacobitism.

Centre for Medieval Studies

The Centre for Medieval Studies at Cardiff University is a research collective dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of the Middle Ages. It brings together specialists from various schools within the university, including History, Archaeology, Religious Studies, English, Communication, Philosophy, and Welsh, to foster collaboration in research and graduate teaching. The Centre aims to promote high-quality research and provide a focused environment for postgraduate students. The Centre hosts a regular program of research seminars and academic and social events, encouraging discussion and bringing scholars from both within and outside the university together. These events are open to all interested medievalists in the region. The research expertise within the Centre covers a broad range of topics related to the Middle Ages, with a particular emphasis on the literatures, languages, histories, and material cultures of Wales, the British Isles, Europe, and Byzantium, spanning the period from 500 to 1500 AD.

Creative Writing PhD

The Creative Writing PhD at Lancaster University offers a chance to join a program with a rich history, established in 1970 as one of the first of its kind in the UK. You will be taught by prize-winning authors and have the opportunity to publish your work during and after your studies. The program allows for a substantial critical writing component (around 20,000 words) and a creative writing submission (60-80,000 words). Students can explore traditional genres like poetry, fiction, drama, and memoir, as well as contemporary forms such as fantasy, game writing, young adult fiction, and graphic novels. The university is open to discussing other forms and project ideas. The program utilizes pioneering virtual learning and research facilities, enabling study from anywhere globally. Campus-based students benefit from a vibrant departmental event schedule, and all students, whether on-campus or remote, participate in termly Work in Progress sessions.

Doctor of Philosophy (MPhil / PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research-focused degree where you will conduct an original research project under the guidance of experienced academic supervisors. While there is no formal taught component, you will receive research training and may have access to relevant master's level modules. This program is ideal for those seeking to make an original contribution to knowledge in any field where the university has available expertise. Cross-disciplinary research is encouraged. The university fosters a vibrant research community with opportunities for personal development, attending seminars, presenting at conferences, and publishing your work. Strong links with various industries and organizations can also support your research and career development.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at American Management University is a research-focused doctoral program designed for individuals aiming to deepen their expertise and contribute original knowledge to their chosen field. The program emphasizes independent research, critical analysis, and the development of novel work, making it distinct from professional doctorates which focus on applying existing knowledge. Graduates are prepared for roles in research, academia, consulting, and leadership positions requiring advanced analytical abilities.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Undertake original academic research and make a significant contribution to knowledge with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). This program is designed for passionate individuals looking to immerse themselves in a chosen specialism. You will collaborate with a dedicated supervisory team selected for their expertise and become part of a vibrant research community. The program offers opportunities for professional development, including gaining teaching experience, presenting at conferences, and engaging in further training to enhance your CV and employability. The PhD is available to study on-campus or via distance learning, providing flexibility for researchers worldwide. Distance learning students engage with supervisors through online meetings and are not typically required to attend campus, except for induction and oral examinations.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biological Sciences

The University of Southampton offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program, providing an opportunity for students to undertake in-depth research in a specialized area. This program is designed for individuals who want to contribute new knowledge to their chosen field. While specific details on all disciplines are not provided, the university has strong research groups across various scientific and social science areas, including biological sciences, engineering, and environmental science. Prospective students are encouraged to identify a research project and potential supervisor within their area of interest.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Intelligence and Global Security

This PhD program focuses on Intelligence and Global Security, designed for professionals seeking to advance in academic, government, and private sector roles. It provides a comprehensive, multidisciplinary understanding of current global threats, including terrorism, cybercrime, climate change, and public health crises. The program emphasizes the application of theoretical, conceptual, and practical skills in intelligence and security studies. Students will develop these skills through rigorous research, culminating in a doctoral dissertation that is essential for entering and advancing in national security sectors. This degree is ideal for current professionals in the Intelligence and Global Security field who wish to explore new ground and contribute significantly to the critical field of intelligence and security studies. The completion of the program requires the successful production, presentation, and defense of a doctoral dissertation.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Networking

Doctor of Philosophy in History

This PhD thesis, submitted to the University of Birmingham in September 2015, focuses on the Battle of the Sambre, which took place on 4 November 1918. It examines the final large-scale set-piece attack by the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) on the Western Front during World War I, specifically referencing the actions of the Third and Fourth Armies. While often overshadowed by other battles of the period, this engagement involved thirteen divisions, over a thousand guns, and significant tank support. The research questions whether the battle was decisive, analyzes the BEF's "learning curve" throughout the war, and explores the extent to which it was an "all-arms" battle. It investigates the plan versus reality of the battle's execution, the necessity of officers adapting plans, and the broader context of the German Army's disintegration. The thesis argues that the victory was strategically decisive, expediting the Armistice by pushing the German Army off its last prepared defensive line and preventing a prolonged conflict. Furthermore, the study delves into the tactical and operational effectiveness of the BEF at the end of its "learning curve," highlighting the role of the Royal Engineers and the strategic and political consequences of the victory. It examines the development of "bite and hold" tactics and the varying levels of fighting efficiency among units. The research also considers the impact of the battle on German leadership and peace negotiations, arguing that it was a pivotal moment in the process leading to the Armistice.

English (PhD or MA by Research)

Embark on a postgraduate research degree in English at Oxford Brookes University, situated in a city renowned for its rich literary heritage. The School of Education, Humanities and Languages fosters a vibrant and inclusive research environment, offering supervision across a wide range of English Literature, Language, and Linguistics specialisms. You will benefit from strong disciplinary foundations while also having opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration within the university and beyond. This program offers both MA by Research and PhD routes, allowing you to pursue your research interests with the support of experienced supervisors. The faculty has an excellent track record of supervising postgraduate students and is committed to supporting the quality of their research. Our research activities are backed by various councils and trusts, including the Arts and Humanities Research Council and the Leverhulme Trust.

Gender in Contemporary Saudi Novels

This doctoral research explores the representation of gender in four Saudi novels published after 9/11. The study, which includes novels by both male and female authors, examines narrative techniques and strategies used to depict Saudi women and address their concerns within the Saudi socio-cultural context. It aims to challenge essentialist Western interpretations by highlighting how these novels negotiate gender issues and resist patriarchal structures from an Islamic feminist perspective. The research posits that the post-9/11 era brought about significant social and literary changes in Saudi Arabia, fostering greater freedom of expression, particularly concerning women's issues. The study contributes to Arabic literary, cultural, and gender studies by demonstrating how Saudi novels serve as platforms for indigenous feminist discourse that critiques prevailing norms and undermines patriarchal systems. The findings suggest a move towards representing women as complex individuals rather than a homogeneous group, with religion being utilized as a tool for advancing women's status and social justice.

Heteroglossic engagement in undergraduate essays

This PhD thesis explores how university students engage with external voices and present their own authorial voice in academic essays. It uses the Engagement framework within Appraisal theory to examine dialogic positioning. Previous research has mainly focused on research articles or compared high-scoring and low-scoring essays in a limited number of disciplines. This study addresses that gap by analysing patterns in how first-language English undergraduate students across three academic levels in Arts and Humanities use linguistic resources to engage with different viewpoints in their essays, drawing from the British Academic Written English (BAWE) corpus. The research combines discourse analysis and corpus linguistics. An initial analysis of 42 essays identified Engagement features, leading to a refined framework. This refined framework was then applied to assess variations across different essay types, academic levels, and disciplines within the corpus. A larger corpus study was conducted to validate these findings. The findings indicate that while undergraduate writers use a variety of ways to engage with external voices, they tend to close down dialogue rather than expand it by including more external perspectives. Variations were observed across different essay subgenres, with higher engagement in final-year essays and noticeable differences between disciplines. The corpus study confirmed consistent patterns in the use of Engagement features.

Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science

The University of Lincoln welcomes international students to its academic community, prioritizing an excellent student experience for all. This program offers opportunities for advanced study and research within Computer Science, aiming to equip students with the skills and knowledge for future careers or further academic pursuits. The university fosters a supportive environment with strong connections to industry and opportunities for global engagement.

MPhil Arts

MPhil/PhD Philosophy

The MPhil/PhD Philosophy program at LSE is offered by a world-leading department focused on research in rational choice theory, formal epistemology, philosophy of science, and moral and political philosophy. This program is designed for students who wish to conduct research in areas where the department has particular expertise, including the philosophy of natural and social sciences, moral and political philosophy, and decision theory. The program emphasizes research that aims to contribute to both academic discourse and practical applications in various scientific fields and beyond. Teaching is research-led, ensuring students engage with cutting-edge material taught by leading scholars in the field. Upon successful completion, you will have produced a substantial piece of work that makes an original contribution to philosophy and is suitable for publication. You will benefit from the department's strong research environment, including affiliations with the Centre for Philosophy of Natural and Social Science and The Forum for Philosophy, offering numerous research seminars, lecture series, and interdisciplinary events. The program also provides opportunities to gain teaching experience by leading undergraduate discussion classes, which is considered an essential part of developing philosophical expertise.

Music and the experience of worship: continuity and change in Reformation Bristol and Gloucestershire, 1530-1642

This doctoral thesis investigates the multifaceted influences on worship experiences and musical practices during the Reformation period, specifically from 1530 to 1642. It focuses on the contrasting regions of Bristol and Gloucestershire to challenge existing scholarly views on musical changes in worship. The research presents a more varied soundscape than previously understood and explores the complex relationship between musical practices and religious identity, highlighting the local dynamics that shaped these changes. The thesis examines how financial, social, institutional, and personal factors drove changes in worship. It then delves into how these elements specifically affected singing, organs, and bells in worship, drawing on extensive sources such as churchwardens' accounts, consistory court records, cathedral records, and civic institutions. By analyzing actual practices, the research demonstrates the diverse agents influencing worship experiences and the unique sonic character of each church. It reveals that while preferences for certain practices might be linked to specific religious groups, the actual links between practices and identities were often more nuanced, suggesting that music in worship could be more flexible and enduring than previously acknowledged.

Pentecostalism as a Theological Tradition

This program critically examines Pentecostalism as a theological tradition, addressing the widespread confusion and ignorance surrounding its identity. It explores how Pentecostal theology, often perceived as a collection of disparate doctrines, is in fact shaped by global dynamics that both assert and question its traditional roots. The program investigates the challenges Pentecostalism faces in solidifying its religious presence worldwide without a clear theological identity. It highlights the tendency to define "Pentecostal" by what it is not, risking a dilution of its distinctiveness amidst a diverse Christian landscape. The research aims to identify the core theological elements constituting Pentecostalism as a tradition, analyze the dominant patterns of its reenactment, and assess how these constructs influence its future development. It argues that understanding *how* Pentecostals believe, rather than just *what* they believe, is crucial for defining its identity and ensuring its endurance as a global movement.

PhD Film

The University of Hertfordshire welcomes applications for PhD research in Film. This program offers the opportunity to conduct innovative research into Film and Television from various perspectives. You will be supervised by active researchers with expertise in areas such as film and television through religious and philosophical lenses, Cultural Studies, Gender Studies, and Psychoanalysis. The PhD is a research-based degree culminating in a thesis of approximately 80,000 words, defended in an oral examination (viva voce). The program can be undertaken full-time over up to 4 years or part-time over up to 7 years.

PhD in Business

The PhD programme at London Business School is designed to cultivate the next generation of scholars and thought leaders. It provides a rigorous, research-intensive environment supported by acclaimed faculty and comprehensive infrastructure. Students engage in interdisciplinary research across various business disciplines, sharpening their critical thinking and research skills through coursework, joint projects, and independent study. The programme aims to equip graduates for successful careers in leading academic institutions and research organisations worldwide.

PhD in Cultural History

The University of Birmingham offers a PhD program focused on Cultural History. This doctoral research opportunity allows students to delve deeply into specific historical periods and cultural phenomena. The program encourages original research and scholarly contribution to the field. Students will work closely with faculty experts to develop their research questions, methodologies, and critical analysis. The culmination of the program is a substantial dissertation that presents original findings and arguments. This program is ideal for individuals passionate about historical research and interested in exploring the complexities of culture through a historical lens.

PhD in Museum Studies

The PhD in Museum Studies at the University of Aberdeen is a research-focused degree that allows students to delve into the multifaceted world of museums, galleries, heritage, and collections. This interdisciplinary program enables you to draw upon a wide range of expertise from departments such as Anthropology, Education, Philosophy, and Politics, and to engage with the University's own significant collections. The program is designed for individuals with a Master's degree and ideally some professional experience in the museum sector, who wish to make an original and significant contribution to the field through independent research. You will develop a research project in consultation with your supervisors, culminating in a thesis and an oral examination.

PhD Magic and Occult Science

This PhD program offers a unique opportunity to delve into the interdisciplinary study of magic and occult sciences. It encompasses historical, literary, and social science approaches, exploring topics such as witchcraft, folklore, Western Esotericism, and occult traditions within Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. The program also examines the connections between these subjects and gender, sexuality, philosophy, metaphysics, nature, and the history of science and medicine. Exeter's program brings together leading experts from various departments, including the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, which holds a significant research collection on the Arab world, and the History Department, with strengths spanning medieval to late 20th-century global history. This diverse academic environment fosters a global perspective, highlighting the influence of Arabo-Islamic heritage on Western esotericism and unearthing overlooked traditions. As interest in these fields grows in academia, this PhD provides a platform to contribute to groundbreaking research, uncovering hidden connections and reimagining the cultural forces that shape our world.

Philosophy by Distance Learning PhD

The University of Nottingham offers a Distance Learning PhD in Philosophy, designed for enthusiastic and committed students. This program leverages Nottingham's position as a hub for active philosophical research, offering expertise across diverse world philosophical and religious traditions. You will benefit from an intensive program of seminars, workshops, and conferences, all within a supportive and inclusive environment. The department is known for its internationally recognized research and encourages interdisciplinary exploration. This is an excellent opportunity to pursue doctoral research remotely, with opportunities for collaboration and access to a wide range of philosophical areas.

Philosophy MPhil/PhD

The MPhil/PhD in Philosophy at Birkbeck, University of London, offers an advanced postgraduate research degree opportunity. This program is designed for students who wish to undertake significant original research and produce a substantial dissertation of 60,000 to 100,000 words. Initially, students are registered on an MPhil and then upgrade to a PhD after demonstrating satisfactory progress, typically within the first one to two years. Students will work under the guidance of an academic supervisor with expertise in their chosen philosophical field. Birkbeck offers supervision across a wide spectrum of philosophical subjects, aiming to foster students' professional development. Many recent PhD graduates have gone on to secure permanent academic positions at leading universities. While direct application to the MPhil/PhD is possible for those ready to begin thesis writing, many students opt to start with an MRes to gain foundational research training. The program is available for both full-time (4 years) and part-time (7 years) study, with intakes in October and January, and requires on-campus attendance for regular supervisor meetings.

Philosophy MPhil/PhD

Engage in critical thinking and explore the assumptions of contemporary thought within our Philosophy MPhil/PhD program. Our faculty comprises academics with strong research profiles in modern European philosophy, actively involved in interdisciplinary research and collaboration. You will have the opportunity to delve into specialized areas such as continental philosophy and the history of European ideas, aesthetics, and ethics, with supervision available across a wide spectrum of related topics. This program is designed for students who wish to undertake in-depth research. You will be assessed through a thesis and a viva, demonstrating your mastery of philosophical inquiry. Beyond your research, the university offers comprehensive support for postgraduate students, including tailored wellbeing services, workshops on research and professional skills, and career development resources. You can also explore opportunities within Doctoral Training Centres (CDTs) and Doctoral Training Partnerships (DTPs), which often provide interdisciplinary training and potential funding.

Poems concerning the Stanley family (Earls of Derby) 1485-1520

This PhD thesis provides a scholarly edition of four historical poems: 'Lady Bessiye,' 'Bosworth Feilde,' 'Scotish Feilde,' and 'Flodden Feilde.' These works celebrate the military achievements of the Stanley family, the Earls of Derby, particularly their roles in the battles of Bosworth (1485) and Flodden (1513). The introduction to the thesis delves into the historical context, examining the manuscripts and previous editions of the poems. It explores the circumstances under which they were composed, their distinctive literary style, and their significance as historical documents for understanding the period. The newly edited poems are accompanied by detailed commentaries. These commentaries aim to clarify the meaning of obscure passages and to identify the individuals and places relevant to the Stanley family and their associates.

Power and Persuasion: Catechetical Treatments of the Sacraments in Reformation Germany, 1529-1597

This doctoral thesis explores how sacraments were taught to laypeople in Germany between 1529 and 1597 through various catechisms. It examines the catechisms of Martin Luther, Andreas Osiander, Peter Canisius, the Heidelberg Catechism, and the Catechism of the Council of Trent, focusing specifically on baptism, penance, and communion. The study argues that the sacramental knowledge provided in these catechisms was not detailed enough to create distinct confessional identities. Instead, it suggests that catechisms served as tools to promote harmony among the laity, rather than causing division. While each catechism upheld its respective Catholic, Lutheran, or Reformed faith, the simplified approach to sacramental doctrine aimed to reduce theological tensions and foster peaceful coexistence among people with differing beliefs.

Regeneration and re-enchantment: British music and Wagnerism, 1880–1920

This PhD thesis explores the significant and varied impact of Richard Wagner's music, ideas, and politics on British composers between 1880 and 1920. It examines how British composers engaged with Wagnerian concepts and techniques, applying them to themes such as Celticism, Pre-Raphaelitism, Arthurian legends, nationalism, mysticism, pantheism, and the integration of different art forms. The study argues that despite diverse artistic, political, and social motivations, these composers utilized Wagnerian influences to address a perceived crisis or decline in their world, aiming to 'regenerate' or 're-enchant' it. By analyzing these works through the lens of British Wagnerism, the research enhances our understanding of British music during this era and its connection to broader European cultural movements.

Religion in Everyday Life

This program focuses on understanding religion not just through doctrine and ritual, but as it is lived and practiced in the everyday actions, thoughts, and interactions of individuals and communities. Research explores religious practices in Africa and its diasporic communities, with a particular emphasis on the relationships between Christians, Muslims, and followers of indigenous belief systems. The research approach is often ethnographic and historical, incorporating innovative methods like large-scale ethnographic surveys and computer-led corpus linguistics to gain new insights into religious pluralism in domestic and local contexts. The aim is to understand how people utilize their own and other religions to support their lives and ambitions.

Research Degrees

Kingston University offers research degrees (MSc by Research, MA by Research, MPhil, and PhD) that allow you to advance your expertise and pursue academic, consultancy, or commercial careers. These programs emphasize independent study culminating in a dissertation or thesis, defended via an oral examination. The university supports a strong postgraduate community with comprehensive research training, including workshops, seminars, and guest lectures. Research activities span traditional academic disciplines to contemporary issues, with staff recognized as leaders in their fields. Students benefit from access to cutting-edge research facilities and join an ambitious postgraduate community.

Spanish, Portuguese & Latin American Studies Research MPhil/PhD

This research MPhil/PhD program in Spanish, Portuguese, and Latin American Studies offers a rich environment for postgraduate research. Building on King's College London's long tradition in these fields, dating back to the 19th century, the department is a world-leading centre for study. You will have the opportunity to research across all periods and aspects of these studies, including literature, history, cultural studies, film, drama, and music. The department fosters a vibrant research culture where postgraduate students are actively involved. In the recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), the research environment was rated 100% 'world-leading', with research impact also highly rated. This program is ideal for students looking to contribute to scholarship in Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Latin America, and Lusophone Africa, with extensive supervision available due to the diverse research interests of the academic staff.

The case against Albert Speer: the mendacity, evasion and deception in his explanation of his Nazi past to his family and history

This PhD thesis examines the historical narrative presented by Albert Speer, Hitler's armaments minister, regarding his involvement with the Nazi regime. Speer claimed to be apolitical, unaware of the genocide, and that he had attempted to subvert Hitler's orders. This research analyzes primary documents to assess the veracity of these claims, particularly in light of Speer's correspondence with his daughter, Hilde. The thesis argues that Speer actively supported Nazi politics and ideology and was complicit in Nazi atrocities. It further suggests that his accounts of thwarting Hitler's scorched earth policy and his supposed involvement in an assassination plot were strategic elements of his defense during the Nuremberg trials.

The production effect in children learning modern standard Arabic vocabulary as an additional language

This PhD thesis examines the 'production effect' (PE), a learning principle suggesting that actively producing information, such as speaking or writing it, leads to better retention than passively receiving it. While this effect is well-documented in adults learning new languages, its impact on children acquiring vocabulary as a second language is less understood. This research specifically investigates how the production effect influences children's learning of new words in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). The study involved several experiments with bilingual children. A pilot study with 72 children aged 4-11 explored the PE by comparing learning outcomes from listening-only versus listening-and-repeating conditions. This initial phase helped refine the research design by highlighting the importance of factors like age and language background. Subsequent experiments focused on specific age groups (6-year-olds and 8-year-olds) and included different production methods, such as writing. The findings suggest that while repeating words can aid learning, actively writing them down has a more significant positive impact on long-term vocabulary retention in children learning MSA.

Translating national identity: the translation and reception of Catalan literature into English

This doctoral thesis explores how national identity is translated and perceived through the reception of Catalan literature in English. It specifically examines reader responses to two Catalan novels: 'Stone in a Landslide' by Maria Barbal and 'For a Sack of Bones' by Lluís-Anton Baulenas. The research draws upon theories from Descriptive Translation Studies, as well as cultural and sociological approaches to translation, to investigate how representations of Catalan culture and identity are shaped by various influences throughout the translation and reception process. The study focuses on three key areas: the role of translation in promoting Catalan identity within its own culture, how this role impacts the translation process in the target culture (English), and whether these aims are met in the target market. It offers a novel approach to studying the reader within Translation Studies by utilizing blogs, online reviews, and reading groups to gather insights into actual reader responses to translated literature. This methodology can be applied to explore the representation of culture through translation. The findings are relevant for translation research, practice, and policy, particularly for minority cultures.

Welsh and Celtic Studies Postgraduate Research Degrees

Pursue postgraduate research in Welsh and Celtic Studies at Bangor University, focusing on areas like medieval to modern Welsh literature, the social history of minority languages, language revival, and diaspora studies. The program encourages comparative and interdisciplinary research, offering opportunities to explore topics such as the survival of Welsh in the modern world, the literature of the Welsh diaspora in North America and Patagonia, and the connection between language and nationalism. Bangor University has a strong research profile in Welsh and Celtic Studies, with faculty including prominent contemporary Welsh writers and poets. The School collaborates with other university departments, including History and Modern Languages, to provide a rich interdisciplinary environment. Research aims to position Welsh literature within modern intellectual contexts, recognizing it as a dynamic, contemporary form rather than solely a relic of the past.

Writing a new society: Aufbau in GDR literature 1949–1962

This PhD thesis explores the early literature of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) between 1949 and 1962, focusing on the concept of 'Aufbau' (reconstruction). It examines the political implications of cultural production during this period through an analysis of novels, plays, and poems. The study aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of early GDR literature by investigating how intellectuals engaged with and participated in political discourse, and how their creative works related to state-sanctioned aesthetics. The research applies Walter Benjamin's theories of allegory and symbol as a methodological framework to identify patterns in literary texts. This approach helps to differentiate between works that conform to socialist realism and those that deviate, offering insights into the potential for diverse political expression within socialist cultural production. The thesis examines texts based on their political and aesthetic conformity, exploring the 'authority trap' faced by intellectuals navigating between state demands and artistic autonomy. The analysis covers various literary forms and authors, including novels about refugees, plays by Inge and Heiner Müller, and experimental poetry. By examining these works, the thesis contributes to scholarship on early GDR literature by highlighting the complex relationship between art, politics, and intellectual life in an authoritarian socialist state.