London, United Kingdom

The Dark Side of London

This module focuses on the visual representation of London from the Victorian to the contemporary period. In particular, it aims to analyse how artists and filmmakers have expressed their perception of the city as a dark site of social tensions, vice, mystery, crime and detective work. The module will introduce the city through illustrations (Doré, Cruickshank) and documentaries (Keiller, Ackroyd), and then will concentrate on key works of crime cinema set in London (Dassin, Hitchcock, Ritchie). It will consist of lectures on historical and theoretical subjects, seminars, screenings, and it will be supplemented by visits to UCL Collections and other London Museums. Please note that some films contain graphic descriptions of violence.

Course leader

Dr Lucia Rinaldi

Target group

This is a level one module (equivalent to first year undergraduate). No prior subject knowledge is required, but students are expected to have a keen interest in the area.

Course aim

Upon successful completion of this module, students will:

Have gained knowledge of a number of works about London and representations of its dark side;
Have developed their ability to approach and compare images/films analytically;
Have developed their ability to discuss study material in a written and oral manner through commentaries, presentations, in-class seminars;
Have developed their understanding of key critical concepts, laying the foundation for further study.

Credits info

7.5 EC
7.5 ECTS / 4 US / 15 UCL

Fee info

GBP 2585: Students joining us for six weeks (two modules) will receive a tuition fee discount.
GBP : Students are welcome to apply for accommodation at a UCL summer residence.