Graduate Student, Humanities
PhD Research
Thesis Title: Visualising, constructing and narrating fictional characters: A pedagogic approach to characterisation.
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Dr Peter Childs (Dean of Research)
Dr Kate North |
About
My thesis aspires to introduce a new conceptual framework and theoretical model
in pertinence to character construction as both a mental process and a narrative-enhancing tool for the perusal of the creative writing and literary theory students and scholars.
My research consist of two sequential stages.
Initially, the thesis investigates the dynamic interrelationships between the reader and the fictional character, the latter's role in juxtaposition with her real-life counterpart (the actual person), and her liaisons with her creator- the author.
Once the raison d'etre, function and significance of the concept have been studied upon, issues of technique, its necessity or lack thereof will be discussed in order to assist creative writing students comprehend the dynamics underlining the process of character construction, introduce an alternative pedagogical model to the creative writing tutors, and guide literary critics into yet new fields of investigation in pertinence to art and its original creators.
Ultimately, my aim is to create a pedagogical model that will serve both the creative writing and literary criticism disciplines within both practical and theoretical frameworks, in order to take a step closer to yet bridging the gap between theory and practice.
As for me, before I decided to pursue PhD activities, I worked in the London Film Industry for five years on a self-employed basis. I hold an MA in film direction and production from the Northern Film School in Leeds, and a BA (Hons.) in Journalism and Mass Media from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.
On a parallel level, I write short stories, and a novel that explores themes such as personal choice, coping with death and domestic abuse.
