British Literature

Course Description: The purpose of this course is to introduce students to English-language prose and poetry written in England and elsewhere in the British Isles since the earliest days of the English language. The course takes a historical approach, beginning with literature in Old English (such as Beowulf) and Middle English (such as excerpts from the Canterbury Tales), through texts in Early Modern English, including the plays of William Shakespeare, and continuing until the mid-20th century with works written in Modern English. Writers of interest for the course include Geoffrey Chaucer, William Shakespeare, William Blake, Jane Austen, Thomas Hardy, Rudyard Kipling, and J. R. R. Tolkien. Students are expected to read, consider, and write about substantial literary texts over the week between classes. The course grade is based primarily on original student essays on the class texts, short quizzes, and in-class discussions.

Course Objectives: By the end of this course,

1. The student will be able to identify, locate historically, and discuss major texts written by significant authors in the history of British literature, including texts in both Old and Middle English, the plays of Shakespeare, and both poetry and prose from the late 18th century through the mid-20th century.

2. The student will be able to understand and identify major and (some) minor literary themes in each of the texts assigned for the course.

3. The student will be able to comprehend and express, both verbally and in writing, the significance underlying each of the texts assigned for the course in both historical and literary/thematic terms.

4. The student will be able to compose well-crafted, persuasive, and insightful essays on English-language literature that demonstrate his or her familiarity with and ability to analyze common literary devices and themes.

Prerequisites: English Composition (Recommended)

This course is typically offered in the Spring semester and is taught by Dr. Hobbs.