An overview of the literatures written in the region we now know as the United States from the time of European colonization until the present. Course readings will represent literary periods and movements from the Colonial and Revolutionary periods, to contemporary Postmodernism. Lectures and discussion will consider both the development of American literary traditions and the connections between literature and social phenomena such as first contacts between Native Americans and Europeans, slavery, industrialization, social reform, and the women's movement.

Every Spring

Previously: ENGL 240

An introductory overview of British literature and authors. Emphasis is placed on issues of literary history. Students become familiar with the standard scheme of periodization and learn to think about literature in relation to the currents of history. In addition, they explore such subjects as literary influence, changes in literary technology and the consumption of the written word, changes in identity and colonialism and changing theories about the nature and value of literature.

Every Fall

Previously: ENGL 230

A survey of world literature from 2500 BC to 1650 AD, with special emphasis given to the Mediterranean region. Texts will include drama, fiction, and both narrative and lyric poetry.

Every Spring

Previously: ENGL 225

Reading and discussion from the 17th to the 21st century and expanding the scope further outside the European tradition.

Every Fall

Previously: ENGL 226

In this course, students will learn the fundamental principles that underpin the creation of literary art. What does it mean to think like a writer? How do you create stories and poems that reach out and grab a reader? Through the study of four different genres—poetry, fiction, drama, and nonfiction—students will write their own work while also exploring issues of craft that include, character development, dialogue, plot, point of view, stanza formation, line breaks, scene setting, and narrative voice. Through lectures, class workshops, and reading assignments, students will learn the basics of creative writing.

Prerequisites

ENGL 1100 or CIVT 1210

Every Spring

Previously: ENGL 203

This course introduces students to the historical development of the English language from its origins in Anglo-Saxon to its current incarnations around the globe. Students will learn basic principles of linguistic description and analysis, including phonology, morphology, syntax and semantics. In addition, students will examine the role of key literary figures such as Chaucer and Shakespeare in establishing standard dialects and developing vocabulary and syntax.

Prerequisites

ENGL 1100

Every other Spring, odd years

Previously: ENGL 279

Special Topics in English.

Every Spring

Previously: ENGL 297

An intensive study of an author or of a period on a semi-tutorial basis.

Previously: ENGL 299