Introduction to Literature Studies

Overview

Through an introduction to selected poetry, prose and drama texts, students will gain foundational knowledge of English literary studies. During the module, students will develop skills in close analysis and essay writing with a focus on writing with economy and precision. This course is suitable for anyone who wishes to enhance their core study skills, gain a deeper understanding of English Literature as a subject area, or engage with canonical literary texts, including Jane Eyre.

Programme

Through pre-recorded videos and live sessions, we will focus on developing core skills in English literary studies.

Unit 1| Developing an academic style

Through discussion and exercises, this week will assist learners to develop a style that is fitting for an academic essay. We will be considering the importance of introductions, ensuring that learners are able to begin their essays in a way that addresses the task and text.

Unit 2 | Writing with Economy and Precision

In Unit 2, we will take a look at ways of writing concisely and effectively, using a series of exercises to encourage efficient essay writing.

Unit 3 | Developing close analysis skills

Textual analysis is the foundation of a literary essay. This week, we will develop our skills in close-reading, using unseen extracts to engage with unpacking and interpreting texts. Symbolism, motif and theme will all be explored.

Unit 4 | Considering context

What is context and how can it help us shape our understanding of literature? We will be exploring how we can use context to better understand and interpret literary pieces, from centuries old pieces to contemporary work.

Unit 5 | Prose-fiction pre-1900

In Unit 5, we will begin to explore some of the foundational themes of Jane Eyre, using extracts to practice close reading skills.

Unit 6 | Drama

In Unit 6, we will take a look at A Streetcar Named Desire, considering themes, character and context.

Unit 7  | Poetry post 1900

Unit 7 will focus on the poetry of Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes, which will be used to help develop skills in comparing and contrasting poetic works by different authors.

Learning Outcomes 

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of appropriate terminology used in academic study of English literature
2. Analyse unseen texts in a clear and coherent way and be able to draw connections between two texts or two extracts from within one text
3. Demonstrate an understanding of context and an ability to integrate context effectively when writing about key texts
4. Engage with, analyse and discuss selected texts and produce a piece of written work for assessment
5. Discuss development of own and others’ writing through workshopping and feedback

Assessments

• Essay Plan - 500 Words (30%)
• Written Assignment - 1500 Words (70%)

Reading Suggestions

Charlotte Bronte, Jane Eyre, (Penguin, 2006)

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What do I Need

As this is an online course, you would need the following: 

• Internet access.
  
• Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit.
• Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible.