Cognitive Perspectives on Contemporary Media Texts

15 credits

Why are metaphors presenting thoughts and feelings as commodities so pervasive? What happens when a real-life mind is rendered transparent through means prevalent in fictional texts? These questions, among many others, are addressed in this course.
The course offers an overview of how methods within cognitive linguistics and literary studies can be applied in the analysis of media texts. The course consists of two modules, each focusing on an influential theory within the framework: Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT) and cognitive narratology.
The first module, Conceptual metaphors and materialism (7.5 credits), gives insights into the development and application of theories on conceptual metaphor. CMT methods are applied in analyses of contemporary media, focusing on metaphors of consumption and materialism. Much weight is put on the cultural contexts informing the metaphors analysed.
The second module, Cognitive narratology and hypothetical scenarios (7.5 credits), provides cognitive narratological tools for analysing texts containing future discourses. Theories on thought representation and projected thought are related to a number of different media texts. The importance of viewing narrative practices critically is stressed in the analyses.

Autumn 2025

Växjö, Half-time, Distance learning

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Education also available as

Växjö, Half-time, Campus

4EN019 Master’s level English Syllabus Half-time, Distance learning English Växjö 01 Sep, 2025 - 18 Jan, 2026 January 15 Some courses and programmes will accept late applications. LNU-F2824

1–90 credits in English or Comparative Literature including an independent project of at least 15 credits or the equivalent,

or,

1-90 credits including an independent project of at least 15 credits in another subject in the humanities or social sciences or the equivalent, as well as English course 6/English B or the equivalent.

100% Higher Education Credits

27,500 SEK 27,500 SEK

Department of Languages

Distance – study where you are

Distance learning can be structured in different ways – it may be entirely online, or include a few on-campus sessions or meetings at one of our learning centres. The common factor is that most of the learning happens online.

You communicate with your teacher and fellow students through a learning platform, which provides access to discussion forums, group work opportunities, and digital meetings. In many cases, you also have access to recorded lectures via the platform.

The advantage of distance learning is its flexibility – ideal for those who want more freedom to decide when and where to study. However, keep in mind that some mandatory elements of your programme may take place during working hours, even if they are conducted online.

Växjö – the student city with a vibrant campus

Just south of Växjö city centre lies Campus Växjö. Many students choose to live on campus.

Here you have friends, restaurants, lecture halls, gyms, a supermarket, the university library, outdoor recreation areas, and student pubs – all within a five-minute walk. You can also live in other parts of Växjö and easily reach the university by bike or bus.

With nearly 100 000 inhabitants, Växjö is one of Sweden’s fastest-growing cities. It has a strong Småland entrepreneurial spirit and a diverse business sector – perfect when you’re looking for a placement, an internship, or a job.

Växjö is also a scenic city, where you’re always close to forests and lakes, and it offers plenty of events and experiences, ranging from music and food to sports.

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Did you know that you can combine single-subject courses to build your own degree? In this way, you can design your own degree based on your interests and the career you are aiming for. This does not apply to all courses so make sure to check with a study counsellor at the faculty. Learn more about how you can build your own degree and become unique on the labour market.