ENGL 260-01 and 02, Survey of English Literture I, Spring 2003

Abstract

First, it aims to introduce you to the history of literature written in English, from Beowulf to the eighteenth century. As you read several important works from medieval and early modern literature, you will become more familiar with this literature’s genres (like epic, romance, and drama) and some of the themes it addresses (like heroism and gender). This course is also intended to give you more practice in doing close analyses of literature in relation to historical and cultural contexts. Ideally, in this course you will learn not only about the broad expanse of history, but you will also develop your ability to read closely and carefully.