English literature
Description
The largest body of literature written in a modern language, English literature has developed over fifteen centuries from the Anglo-Saxon period to the present. As an undergraduate study, this major includes in-depth and broad-ranging exposure to literature from
both British and American contributors. The major requires extensive reading of the
greatest contributions, as well as a familiarity with the works of lesser known authors,
including poets, essayists, playwrights, novelists, and historians.
Plan of study
The plan of study begins with survey courses in topics such as medieval literature, nineteenth-century poets, or twentieth-century British plays. The student then takes full
courses about individual authors, such as Chaucer, Shakespeare, T.S. Eliot, Joyce, Keats,
and Shelley or topics such as Beowulf, 18th century British novel, African-American literature, or women’s literature. Finally, courses in literary theory, literary research, problems of modern literature, and independent study complete the major.
Expect to take
Survey of literature, medieval literature, seventeenth-century literature, modern drama,
history of literature, women in literature, seminar on problems in literature, research in
literature.
Suggested high school subjects
Advanced English (AP preferred), history, foreign language, computer literacy.
General interest areas
Literature, reading, writing, research.
Some career possibilities
Actor/actress
Librarian
College professor
Researcher
Consultant
Secondary school teacher
Editor
Social worker
Freelance writer
Stage director
Lawyer
Some related majors
Advertising
Foreign languages
Classics
History
Communications
Journalism
Comparative literature
Secondary education
English
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Copyright 2009 by Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.
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