LITRYSTD12 Literary studies

Literary Studies offers textual, historical and critical approaches to the study of literature in English. You will learn how to write critically about what you read, and develop an understanding of the relations between language, literature and culture in different historical periods.

 

In this minor you will be able to select core and elective units in literary studies and creative writing.

Literary studies units cover historical and contemporary literatures with a focus on period or genre, ranging from medieval poetry and renaissance drama through to digital literature and graphic novels.  The core units provide an introduction to ways of reading and writing about fiction, poetry and drama. These units will develop skill to help you immerse yourself in more detailed studies of historical texts, modes of discourse, and critical approaches to literature. Specialist electives focus on: critical themes (literature by women), period literature (Romanticism, Modernism), genre literature (supernatural literature, children’s literature, and fairy-tale), and national literatures (American, Irish and Australian).

Creative writing units experiment with a variety of literary forms, genres and techniques (e.g. fiction, poetry and non-fiction) concentrating on approaches by major writers. You will reflect creatively and analytically on your ongoing writing practice in the light of these writers examples. You will work in a supportive and collaborative environment, and will be encouraged to engage with a range of techniques and styles.