English Literature

Course summary

This course is designed to encourage students to read widely and independently, to explore literary texts for their own intrinsic value, and to set them within their appropriate literary, cultural, and historical contexts. A willingness to read widely and to share an informed and personal response is necessary. The course consists of three units: Unit 1. Drama and poetry pre-1900: Students explore three texts: Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, and a selection of poetry by Christina Rossetti. Unit 2. Comparative and contextual study (American Literature 1880-1940): Students undertake a detailed analysis of two novels, starting with Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, as well as a range of short extracts, exploring how far these texts are representative of American writing in this fascinating period of history. Unit 3. Literature post-1900: Students produce two pieces of coursework based upon the poetry of Vicki Feaver, Pinter’s classic play The Homecoming, and a novel of their choice, as negotiated with the teaching staff.