English literary history II (1660-present) [LANGB004]

Learning outcomes

Understand the evolution of English literature in its various, increasingly international contexts. Begin to conceptualize the complexity of literature (genres, media, ideology, reception, etc.) and develop a methodological awareness. Acquire the technical vocabulary of literary studies. Construct the foundations of a sound cultural literacy and literary erudition. Improve the student's knowledge of the English language in a wide range of uses and stylistic and historical variants, and help them to achieve level B2 (ELP).

Objectives

See "Acquis".

Content

This course continues the first literary history course and covers the development of English literature from 1660 onwards. The main chapters cover the classical period, the Romantics, the Victorians and the twentieth century (and beyond). The focus is on British literature, but the global expansion of the English language and its literature is also taken into account. As in the first course, we emphasize the evolution and stratification of the various literary genres and the relationships between literature, language and social reality. Several poems and excerpts are used for illustration.

Exercises description

Conversation classes based on the two novels (set reading, see below). Class presentations by groups of students on literary topics related to the course. Discussion of films related to the course.